The Lowdown with Matt Munoz / 2010 by Matt Munoz

Thursday, March 11, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Dr. Robert Spack is pleased to announce the opening of his new weight center

Hello, I’ll be your guide to the scene Bakotopia editor unveils new column

o city can test the “love factor” for an artist like Bakersfield. Covering the arts scene over the years, I’ve heard it all. Back at my old Bakotopia office, a daily stream of visitors often stopped in for a chat or vent session. I always listened and learned to understand their pain, as I, too, am a local working musician. Did those hours of lengthy conversations ever accomplish anything? Absolutely, those heated sessions taught me this town once again has an artistic pulse. It may have taken a few years to resuscitate, but it’s back. And if last week’s First Friday is any indicator, there’s more “whoopee” to be made in the name of art. Let’s start with the First Friday setup efforts by Metro Galleries’ Don Martin, the unofficial mayor of downtown. With his assistant, Derek, the two busily set up the displays of creatively painted doors at designated areas Martin around 19th and Eye streets, some even over at the Padre. I was impressed, especially since artists all know that commitment to one’s craft often has its limits. Not for lack of talent, but due to support back from the public — empty galleries aren’t very encouraging. So First Friday March was a rousing success, thanks to the true believers — its participants. Like any successful relationship, it takes a proactive collection of creative types to make these local events successful and to survive past the honeymoon debut. Hope to see you all back in April. Support your scene!

Matt’s event picks Sick Puppies at B Ryder’s, 7401 White Lane; 7 p.m. Friday, $15, all ages, 397-7304. Former Aussie mates now residing in

Bakotopia Radio 9-10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM, KRAB Radio Hosts Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth welcome: Comedian Daniel Tosh from Comedy Central’s “Tosh 2.0.” Bako indie rockers Backup Johnny, who will perform live for a St. Patrick’s Day preview. Tosh Local skateboard makers Haggard Longboards, will stop by for a listener giveaway — a custom Bakotopia Radio-designed longboard! Tunein and win.

SoCal make their return to Bako. Widely known for the “Free Hugs” craze they helped spread with the 2008 hit, “All The Same,” they came back to bodyslam fans with ’09s “You’re Going Down” for WWE. I’ve interviewed the band three times, and each time they sound more road weary than the last. But don’t worry fans, they promise to wake up for Friday’s show. I heard their lovely bassist, Emma, might even oblige a free hug or two, so make sure and smell good. This band loves contact. The English Beat w/ The Subterraneans at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 9 p.m. Friday, $17, 21 and over, 3242557. You don’t have to be 40 years old to know this band. Remember “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off?” The part where Ferris runs across through people’s yards to escape Principal Rooney? Yes, that song was “Rotating Heads” by The English Beat. Almost 30 years later, original member and singer Dave Wakeling is still in prime vocal form to perform all the band’s hits including, “Save It For Later,” and “Mirror In The Bathroom.” On drums is local beat master Rhythm Epkins, whose been touring with The Beat for years. Opening is local alt-rock cover band, The Subterraneans. Back in the ’90s, vocalist Shawn Beyeler once owned Bottom’s Up Canteen in the

same location as Riley’s Tavern. If you’re brave, ask him about the infamous “hot wing” incident and which band was rockin’ the stage there that fateful night. Don’t forget an undershirt — there will be sweat. Karling Abbeygate and The Iron Outlaws at BRyder’s, 7401 White Lane, 9 p.m. Saturday, $15, 21 over, 3977304. Since Bakersfield country music seems to be on siesta, leave it to a Brit to keep the flame alive. Part Patsy Cline with some Wanda Jackson and a dash of Bettie Boop charm, singer Karling Abbeygate always delivers an authentic set of original tunes to please country fans. She made her Bakersfield debut in ’08 with openers The Iron Outlaws, who coincidentally also kicked off their careers that same night. Since then, the two acts trade gigs in L.A. and Bako, keeping greasers and Bettie Page wannabes in step. Describing their sound as “hard country,” The Iron Outlaws are one of a handful of local bands that dare taking gigs in Ventura, then Vegas on the next night. Their latest CD, “Take It Or Leave It,” pretty much describes this show. I suggest you take it.

Calling all leprechauns Bakotopia and Fishlips, 1517 18th St., present the annual “Shamrock Shindig” with local party bands Mento Buru, Backup Johnny, Less Weight For Atlas, Black Dog and DJ Mikey. Like Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day is open to celebratory interpretation in Bakersfield. Rooted in Catholicism, the Feast of St. Patrick celebrates Ireland’s patron saint on March 17. Every year, those of Irish descent show off their Paddy pride and pinching becomes the greeting of the day, should you forget to wear your green. The Fishlips party will have plenty of dancing, free beads, Guinness on tap, plus corned beef and cabbage on the menu. Make sure you’re well-rested, have your green outfit planned and have a designated driver available. The 21 and over party kicks off at 6 p.m., and admission is $10. Early reservations are recommended and special-event wristbands will be available for purchase that morning. Call 324-2557 for info.

New Reflection Medical Weight Center 5129 Ming Ave. at New Stine in the Colonial Square Shopping Center

397-5673

Adv. Tix on Sale GREEN ZONE Adv. Tix on Sale THE BOUNTY HUNTER ALICE IN WONDERLAND (PG) (140 PM 420 PM) 700 PM THE CRAZIES (R) - ID REQ'D (230 PM 510 PM) 800 PM COP OUT (R) - ID REQ'D (215 PM 500 PM) 740 PM SHUTTER ISLAND (R) - ID REQ'D (100 PM 400 PM) 710 PM PERCY JACKSON AND THE OLYMPIANS (PG) (155 PM 435 PM) 720 PM THE WOLFMAN (R) - ID REQ'D (225 PM 450 PM) 750 PM VALENTINE'S DAY (PG-13) (145 PM 430 PM) 730 PM DEAR JOHN (PG-13) (150 PM 415 PM) 650 PM ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE SQUEAKUEL (PG) (210 PM 425 PM) 640 PM (310 PM) 630 PM AVATAR (PG-13)

346-2689

Adv. Tix on Sale GREEN ZONE Adv. Tix on Sale THE BOUNTY HUNTER THE BOONDOCK SAINTS 10TH ANNIVERSARY EVENT (NR) 745 PM BROOKLYN'S FINEST (R) - ID REQ'D (145 PM 445 PM) 1045 PM ALICE IN WONDERLAND IN REALD 3D EVENT PRICING (PG) (100 130 345 415) 630 700 915 945 ALICE IN WONDERLAND (PG) (200 445) 730 1015 COP OUT (R) - ID REQ'D (120 150 420 450) 720 750 950 1020 THE CRAZIES (R) - ID REQ'D (215 500) 800 1030 SHUTTER ISLAND (R) - ID REQ'D (110 140 410 440) 710 740 1000 1040 PERCY JACKSON AND THE OLYMPIANS (PG) (1245 400) 645 940 THE WOLFMAN (R) - ID REQ'D 815 PM 1050 PM VALENTINE'S DAY (PG-13) (115 430) 725 1010 DEAR JOHN (PG-13) (1230 330) 615 930 TOOTH FAIRY (PG) (210 PM 510 PM) AVATAR (PG-13) (125 PM 515 PM) 830 PM

Times For 3/11/10

Maya Bakersfield 16 Cinemas

Text Movies to 21321 Matinee $6.00, Children/Seniors $6.00, General Admission $9.00, 3D Matinee $9.00, 3D General $12.00

Alice In Wonderland 3-D – PG (10:00 11:00 12:45 1:45 3:30 4:30) 6:15 7:15 9:00 10:00 Brooklyn’s Finest – R (10:45 1:40 4:40) 7:40 10:40 Cop Out – R (10:55 11:30 1:25 2:00 3:55 4:30) 6:30 7:15 9:15 10:05 Wolfman – R (12:15 2:30 4:50) 7:05 7:55 9:20 10:05 The Crazies – R (11:20 12:30 1:45 3:00 4:10) 5:35 6:35 8:00 9:35 10:45 Tooth Fairy – PG (11:55 2:05)

Avatar 3-D – PG13 Exclusive Showing (11:15 2:45) 6:15 9:45 Alice In Wonderland – PG (10:30 1:15 4:00) 6:45 9:30 Shutter Island – R (12:00 1:00 3:00 4:05) 6:00 7:10 9:10 10:10 Crazy Heart – R (11:40 2:10 4:40) 7:20 10:15 Dear John – PG-13 (4:35) 7:20 9:45 Percy Jackson & The Olympians – PG (10:50 11:35 1:30 2:25 4:20) 5:05 7:05 9:50

1000 California Ave. • 661-636-0484 • mayacinemas.com

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VALLEY PLAZA MALL, WIBLE ROAD AT HI-WAY 99 ADVANCE TICKETS AT READINGCINEMASUS.COM 1-800-FANDANGO #2703

GENERAL ADMISSION ONLY

MATINEES BEFORE 6PM ONLY

SENIORS (55+) AND KIDS ONLY

3D $11.00

3D $8.00

850 $550 $550

BEST MKERSFIELD’S OVIE V ALUE

EVERY THURSDAY

■

SIZE FREE VALUE POPCORN ANYONE 55 OR OLDER

(R)

■

(PG)

(1:45, 4:20), 7:00, 9:30 ALICE IN WONDERLAND (PG)

(1:50, 4:45), 7:35, 10:25

HURT LOCKER(R)

(12:15, 1:00, 2:45, 3:30, 5:15), 6:00, 7:45, 8:30, 10:15 COP OUTR)

(12:00, 1:00, 2:45, 4:05, 5:10), 7:00, 8:00, 9:25, 10:25 THE CRAZIES (R)

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Starting today, Matt will share his opinions, insights and news in a column that will appear every Thursday in Eye Street.

Now accepting new and former patients!

(12:05, 1:05, 2:25, 3:25, 4:45, 5:45), 7:05, 8:05, 9:30, 10:30

(1:00), 6:40

SHUTTER ISLAND(R)

THE WOLFMAN (R)

(12:45, 3:20), 5:45, 8:10, 10:30

(2:00, 3:45, 5:00), 7:55, 9:35

DEAR JOHN (PG-13)

VALENTINES DAY (PG)

AVATAR (PG-13)

(12:00PM, 2:35, 5:10), 7:50, 10:30 PERCY JACKSON AND THE OLYMPIANS (PG)

(1:40, 4:30), 7:10, 9:55

(12:25, 2:50, 5:20), 7:50, 10:20

(12:15, 3:30), 7:00, 10:10 TOOTH FAIRY (PG)

(12:50, 3:10, 5:30), 7:50, 10:10

VISIT READINGCINEMASUS.COM FOR ADVANCE TICKETS AND SHOWTIMES. Bargain Shows in ( )

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Thursday, March 18, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Don’t worry, Ma: Your kid is in good hands BY MATT MUNOZ

Bakotopia Radio

Bakotopia editor mmunoz@bakersfield.com

his week’s column is dedicated to all fellow music-loving parents of teenagers. Remember the uncool feeling of being chaperoned to a concert? My parents didn’t care for the bands I wanted to see, so usually opted to stay home instead of hanging out. On the way I insisted on being dropped off a block away from the show and picked up when it was over. All I had to do was “promise” I wouldn’t get in any trouble. That meant no drinking, drugs or fighting. I could only imagine how they would have reacted after seeing me leap off the stage and into the crowd during a show. Did you know the Fox Theater and other well-known locales used to stage rowdy punk rock shows in the ’80s? In retrospect, I can’t believe we were that fearless, somehow managing to avoid breaking our necks. I was lucky to have some hip parents along with that level of trust. These shows were total chaos, but dangerously fun. Years later, things are a lot better and safer for young Bakersfield music fans. I’m no baby sitter, but I understand concerns. To calm parental nerves for the sake of the local teenage concertgoer, I’ll share a little of what I know. Some of the most commonly asked questions sent to me from parents include: “What can you tell me about this show?” “Is the venue safe?” “Will there be drinking?” Here’s a list of three local rooms set up to host the under-21 set. These venues made the list based on the number of regularly scheduled shows by concert promoters catering to teens and the almost-21 crowd. The Dome, 2201 V St.: Owner Chencho Madera has been faithfully keeping this large multi-use facility going for years. It has regular security, room to move or sit, a snack bar and serves beer with ID. They also have a cool outdoor stage that could be used more come springtime. The Gate, 2010 O St.: The Gate has been serving young concertgoers for 13 years due in large part to the work of Rob

9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM, KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth

Adv. Tix on Sale HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON Adv. Tix on Sale THE BOUNTY HUNTER SHE'S OUT OF MY LEAGUE (R) - ID REQ'D (220 PM 450 PM) 750 PM GREEN ZONE (R) - ID REQ'D (155 PM 430 PM) 720 PM ALICE IN WONDERLAND (PG) (140 PM 420 PM) 700 PM THE CRAZIES (R) - ID REQ'D (230 PM 510 PM) 800 PM COP OUT (R) - ID REQ'D (215 PM 500 PM) 740 PM SHUTTER ISLAND (R) - ID REQ'D (100 PM 400 PM) 710 PM PERCY JACKSON AND THE OLYMPIANS (PG) (145 PM 415 PM) 650 PM VALENTINE'S DAY (PG-13) (200 PM 440 PM) 730 PM DEAR JOHN (PG-13) (150 PM 410 PM) 640 PM ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE SQUEAKUEL (PG) (210 PM 425 PM) 630 PM

Adv. Tix on Sale HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON Adv. Tix on Sale THE BOUNTY HUNTER BROOKLYN'S FINEST (R) - ID REQ'D (110 410) 705 1010 ALICE IN WONDERLAND IN REALD 3D EVENT PRICING (PG) (100 130 340 410) 640 710 915 945 ALICE IN WONDERLAND (PG) (200 440) 740 1015 THE CRAZIES (R) - ID REQ'D (215 500) 800 1040 COP OUT (R) - ID REQ'D(150 450) 750 1020 SHUTTER ISLAND (R) - ID REQ'D (1215 330) 630 920 PERCY JACKSON AND THE OLYMPIANS (PG) (1200 345) 645 940 VALENTINE'S DAY (PG-13) (1230 PM) 615 PM DEAR JOHN (PG-13) (315 PM) 910 PM AVATAR (PG-13) (125 PM 515 PM) 830 PM OUR FAMILY WEDDING (PG-13) (120 400) 700 930 SHE'S OUT OF MY LEAGUE (R) - ID REQ'D (145 445) 745 1045 REMEMBER ME (PG-13) (115 415) 715 1000 GREEN ZONE (R) - ID REQ'D (130 430) 730 1030

Times For 3/18/10

This Sunday: • An interview with OC ska-punk legends, Reel Big Fish, coming to Bakersfield March 28! • Local band Tall, Dark & 90 perform live in studio. • 2004 “American Idol” finalist Amy Adams stops by to talk about her youth music mentoring program in Bako.

Allison, who’s helped the place build a loyal following. Christian and secular rock bands often share the bill. Not just a concert venue, kids can bring their skateboards on weekly “Shindig” nights and not be worried about things running too late. The snack bar is cheap, and Rob is a rocker from way back, so no need to worry — it’s OK to get loud. Jerry’s Pizza, 1817 Chester Ave.: A local underground music landmark with its share of critics, Jerry’s is still home to local and touring bands. The last time I attended a show there was in 2003, so I can’t tell you what the latest experience is like. I did, however, take a quick peek a week ago to see a bigger downstairs stage still intact. Promoters usually bring in security to oversee the show, and beer and pizza are served upstairs. Plus, owner Jerry Baranowski is still his friendly, offbeat self. These venues get my vote for consistency and providing a much-needed outlet for kids. Most shows start early and end before 11 p.m. If you’re still concerned for your child’s well-being, stop by during the day and take a look around. Concerts are a big part of teenage life. Teach awareness and try not to worry so much — since stage diving isn’t allowed in Bako anymore.

Matt’s event picks Vogue In The Movement, Cidona and more at The Gate, 2010 O St., 7 p.m. Friday, $7, all ages. Bako’s own Vogue In The Movement return after some band drama, complete with a new drummer. Their ’09 self-titled EP is still making the rounds. Hopefully, they’ll be showcasing some new material. Knowing these boys, this

C PHOTO COURTESY OF CIDONA

Matt Munoz is editor of The Californian’s sister website Bakotopia.com, which promotes the local art scene. His column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

VALLEY PLAZA MALL, WIBLE ROAD AT HI-WAY 99 ADVANCE TICKETS AT READINGCINEMASUS.COM 1-800-FANDANGO #2703

Cidona, from left: Mike Jamison, Josiah Frazier, Karrisa Jackson, Elizabeth Reichelt, Brock Beeney.

show will be packed with screaming young girls, singing along to every song. Another big reason to see this show is the opener, Cidona, a band that proves that rockin’ out is not just for the guys. Vocalist Karrisa Jackson and crew always pull a big crowd, with some radio-ready indie pop. Early arrival recommended. Voodoo Glow Skulls and The Mentors at The Dome, 2201 V St., 5 p.m. Saturday, $10 to $12, all ages, 327-0190. The Voodoo brothers Casillas — Frank, Eddie, and Jorge — have kept the ska/punk flame burning since ’88. With maddening horns accompanying their off-beat ska thrash sound, their live show will have you bouncing off the Dome walls. Make sure to request their rendition of “Feliz Navidad,” and who cares if it’s not close to Christmas? Co-headlining are ’80s shock metal band, The Mentors, featuring local tattoo artist Marc De Leon on drums and lead vocals. When asked what to expect at the show, De Leon’s only response was “It’s gonna be a battle of metal vs. ska.” Yikes. Maylene & The Sons of Disaster with Shilo at Jerry’s Pizza, 1817 Chester Ave., 6 p.m. Monday, $10, all ages, 633-1000. If the crazy guys from the movie “Deliverance” had a favorite metal band, it would have to be Maylene. After canceling their February appearance at The Dome, these Alabama sons make good on their promise to play Bakersfield again. Labeling their sound as “Southern metal-core,” these guys are both scary good and scary looking. Their latest CD, “III” is big on power, even a banjo to keep it Southern fried. Local openers, Shilo, are an odd pairing as the more upbeat of the two. Wonder if they know what they’re walking into? Good luck, fellas!

F O R M E R LY PA C I F I C T H E AT R E S

GENERAL MATINEES ADMISSION BEFORE ONLY 6PM ONLY

850 $550 $550

BEST MKERSFIELD’S OVIE V ALUE

3D $11.00

$ IN

■

(PG)

■

(12:15, 1:00, 2:45, 3:30, 5:15), 6:00, 7:45, 8:30, 10:15 REMEMBER ME (PG13)

(2:15, 4:50), 7:20, 9:50 SHE’S OUT OF MY LEAGUE (R)

(12:40, 3:10, 5:40), 8:05, 10:30 ■

OUR FAMILY WEDDING (PG)

(12:00, 2:05, 4:10), 6:15, 8:20, 10:25

SIZE FREE VALUE POPCORN ANYONE 55 OR OLDER

GREEN

ZONE

(R)

(12:10, 2:40, 5:10), 7:50, 10:30

(1:45, 4:20), 7:00, 9:30 ALICE IN WONDERLAND (PG)

3D $8.00

EVERY THURSDAY

■

SENIORS (55+) AND KIDS ONLY

COP OUTR)

SHUTTER ISLAND(R)

THE CRAZIES (R)

VALENTINES DAY (PG)

CRAZY HEART (R)

PERCY JACKSON AND THE OLYMPIANS (PG)

BROOKLYN’S FINEST (R)

DEAR JOHN (PG-13)

HURT LOCKER(R)

TOOTH FAIRY (PG)

(2:10, 4:35), 7:15, 9:40 (12:30, 2:50, 5:10), 7:30, 9:55

(2:10, 4:45), 7:20, 9:50 (1:50, 4:40), 7:35, 10:25 (1:00, 4:00), 7:05, 10:00

(1:30, 4:30), 7:25, 10:20

(12:00, 2:35, 5:10), 7:50, 10:30 (1:40, 4:30), 7:10, 9:55 (4:45), 7:10, 9:45 (12:15, 2:30)

VISIT READINGCINEMASUS.COM FOR ADVANCE TICKETS AND SHOWTIMES. Bargain Shows in ( )

■ Pass/Discount Restrictions Apply

Showtimes Valid Only 3/18/10

Maya Bakersfield 16 Cinemas

Maya Bakersfield 16 Cinemas Text Movies to 21321

Matinee $6.00, Children/Seniors $6.00, General Admission $9.00, 3D Matinee $9.00, 3D General $12.00

Green Zone – R (11:45 2:20 5:05) 7:45 10:30

Avatar 3-D – PG13 (11:15 2:45) 6:15 9:45

Remember Me – PG-13 (11:20 2:00 4:45) 7:20 10:00

Brooklyn’s Finest – R (10:45 1:40 4:40) 7:40 10:40

Our Family Wedding – PG-13** (10:40 1:00 3:20) 5:40 8:10 10:45

Wolfman – R 7:55 10:05

She’s Out Of My League – R** (12:30 3:00) 5:30 8:00 10:35 Crazy Heart – R** (11:40 2:10 4:50) 7:25 9:55 Alice In Wonderland 3-D – PG (11:00 12:45 1:45 3:30 4:30) 6:15 7:15 9:00 10:00 Cop Out – R (11:30 12:45 2:00 2:55 4:30) 7:15 8:05 10:05 **Denotes Special Engagement

The Crazies – R (12:35 2:50) 5:20 7:55 10:15 Shutter Island – R (12:05 1:05 3:05 4:05) 6:05 7:10 9:10 10:10 Alice In Wonderland – PG (10:30 1:15 4:00) 6:45 9:30 Valentine’s Day – PG-13 5:10 10:25 Percy Jackson & The Olympians – PG (11:35 2:25) 5:05 9:25

1000 California Ave. • 661-636-0484 • mayacinemas.com

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, March 25, 2010

Terry & ’s Charlotte

Eye Street

Buy 1 Dinner & Get 1

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Mon-Fri, 11-2 HOURS Lunch: Dinner: Mon-Thurs, 5-10;

STEAK HOUSE 2515 F Street • 322-9910

Fri & Sat, 5-10:30

Dine In Only Expires 3-31-10 Maximum value of $10.95 only. One coupon per table or party. Not valid with any other offers or Holidays.

Terry & ’s Charlotte

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Mon-Fri, 11-2 HOURS Lunch: Dinner: Mon-Thurs, 5-10;

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The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

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Any tips on bars to hit? What’s with KORN?

uring last Saturday’s Voodoo Glow Skulls / Mentors show at The Dome, promoter Cody Anderson told me about some big upcoming shows, including punk legends D.I. and Dr. Know (the latter featuring Bako-born ’70s child actor Brandon Cruz) on May 8. Dome owner Chencho Madera, who’s done his fair share of local scene work, gave me a tour of the newly remodeled backstage band areas. Bako bands should consider themselves lucky — compared to the Whisky and Roxy in Hollywood, The Dome is a palace. Later that night I headed over to Fishlips’ to catch locals 800Lb Gorilla for their last set. Local girl-group The Pink Ladies were in the house doing some fundraising with their advertised Kissing Booth. It wasn’t actually a booth — more like a table with a tip jar. But a kiss is still a kiss, so I dropped $3 in and got my smooch on the cheek from “Lady D.” Also in the house was a freshly exhausted but very pretty Miss Dissruption (#1950) from the Kern County Roller Girls. Sadly, they lost the evening’s bout 161-138 to Hidden City Derby Girls from Escondido — but that wasn’t stopping her fun.

Calendar girls

W W W. F O X T H E A T E R O N L I N E . C O M

Eliseo Valdovinos of Valdophye Photography said he plans to revive his popular Bakersfield Calendar Girls series next year after a three-year absence. The 2007 edition, featuring the then-reigning Miss Bakersfield, Tiffany Allen, was a controversial best seller.

‘Coffeehouse Sessions’ Bright House cable subscribers should tune to their Bakersfield OnDemand Channel 300 and check out the “Coffeehouse Sessions” music series. Local singer/songwriters Meestro, Alex Mitts and Stanley Jay Tucker are among some of the acts you’ll find. The stage set-up and sound quality is pretty good for a cable-access show, and they’re always looking for more talent. Call your local Bright House office for more info on how to audition.

MAY 7 and MAY 8

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM, KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth

This Sunday: • An interview with radio hitmakers Puddle of Mudd, before their upcoming Bako appearance on April 3. • Ridgecrest punkabilly band The Barstool Saints stop by for an acoustic studio performance! • North Carolina’s Paper Tongues call in from the road before their big show at BRyder’s Bar on April 3.

Freestyle gifting As a gift to fans, local hip-hop group The Natural Movement are offering their new 17-track CD, “Don’t Worry, It’s Free,” for free download at: thenaturalmovement.bandcamp.com. Natural Movement front man MC Nerd Guy, informed me their next CD is already in the works with a working title of “Don’t Worry, It’s STILL Free.” Choice cut: “The New Light” (Keep On Rocking’ The Beat).

Navigating the Dales One of my plans is to make a weekend venture towards the Oildale and Rosedale areas. Between clubs like Trout’s and Rockstarz, who knows what news I might find. If you have any suggestions of where I might experience all those areas have to offer, please e-mail me a proposed map and agenda. I just might ask you to be my guide!

Is KORN coming home? According to some trusted sources, local boys KORN might be stopping by Bako during a trip through the Central Valley sometime in June. If you were lucky enough to be in the audience during lead singer Jonathan Davis’ solo show at BRyder’s last year, you witnessed one of the best shows Bako has ever seen. Back with bandmates James “Munky” Shaffer and Reggie “Fieldy” Arvizu, the band is currently in Alaska rockin’ Sarah Palin’s home state, then headed around the world. Their new CD, “KORN III: Remember Who You Are,” should be out by this summer. Producer Ross Robinson, who produced their first two CDs is back on board to help bring the band back to basics and rock like 1994 all over again. Happy Birthday to Fishlips’ Andrew Wilkins on Saturday! Cheers!

Matt’s event picks Dub Seeds and Velorio at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 9 p.m. Friday, $5, 3242557. No matter what the weather is like outside, Bakersfield reggae/rock trio Dub Seeds always bring plenty of sun to every show. Their recently released CD “Feelin’ It” arrived just in time for spring and summer, capturing the “feelin” of their live show. Vocalist/guitarist Chris Taylor, bassist Gary Rink and drummer “Gizmo” are one of the tightest local trios in town. The night doesn’t stop there. Co-headliners Velorio continue to rise in the local scene. Their bilingual rock fusion translates well in any setting and the girls sure do love it. I heard they rocked L.A.’s House of Blues a few weeks ago, so bring your comfy dance shoes and get ready to get your downtown pachanga on. The Mothership DJ Night at Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 10 p.m. Saturday, 322-8900. Helping local DJs from going astray, this monthly gathering of vinyl junkies and Serato scratchers celebrates its fourth year in the underground confines of Sandrini’s downtown. The grassroots vibe still resonates with a mixed crowd of hardcore “hip-hop heads” and coffeehouse hipsters bobbing their heads every month. House DJ reps — Sabretooth (one of the few local lady DJs), Pat Solo, Qwiz, OMS, and others spin everything from underground rap to rare groove and beyond. Local DJs and aspiring rhyme poets are welcome to take a set on the turntables and the mic, but asked to “leave your ego at the door.” Another tip: don’t start your DJ set with RUN DMC’s “Peter Piper” — it’s been done to death. Reel Big Fish and Vanity Avenue at BRyder’s, 7401 White Lane, 6 p.m. Sunday, $15, 397-7304. Remember the VANS Warped Tour before emo? If you do, you’ll remember Reel Big Fish and the third wave “ska revival” of the ’90s. Taking its herky-jerky sound further away from its Jamaican roots, the Orange County music scene was a hotbed for similar bands. The sound was bouncy, filled with energy and lots of humor. Others groups like Save Ferris and Goldfinger embraced the sound until its subsequent retreat into the underground scene. Making a small dent on national radio with their signature 1997 hit “Sell Out,” Reel Big Fish still tour regularly — even as far as Russia. Local openers Vanity Avenue, hot off their smokin’ St. Patty’s Day set at Fishlips, are guaranteed to get things going as the evening’s openers.

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

Thursday, April 1, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Nothing like Chaos in a coffeehouse M

usicians, hippies, teens, geeks and goths all congregated at this former downtown hangout at 1523 19th St. The absence of all-age venues in Bakersfield in the early ’90s left few options for high school kids and those eagerly awaiting their 21st birthday and legal drinking. Chaos Coffee filled that void from November 1993 to November 1995. Deriving its business name from the film “Jurassic Park,” where actor Jeff Goldblum spoke of the “chaos theory” and how “life finds a way….,” Chaos was a second home for young locals mapping their way through life. Owners Rebekka Haas and Donnie Ward, who took on the idea of opening a coffeehouse in the middle of Bakersfield, had no previous experience in the java business. “We went up and down the coast, checking out coffeehouses,” said Haas of the duo’s market research plan, just a few months before launch. “Then one night we just accidentally opened,” she laughed adding that, “We didn’t even know how to make coffee, but learned after serving 200 people our first night.” For the next two years, Chaos embodied the DIY spirit of its name in every way imaginable. Weekly band shows were held — without proper permits — CSUB college art was freely put on display amidst antique tables, couches and lamps. Service was tolerable thanks to the cute, smiley faces of inexperienced baristas who did their best to earn a small tip of appre-

PHOTO COURTESY OF SHARON MARIE

Chaos was a hangout for young downtowners in the mid-1990s.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BROCK WIGGINS

Near Miss Mallet, from left: Brock Wiggins, Missy Wiggins, Ryan Colberson and Scott Patrick McArdle.

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM, KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth

This Sunday: • A preview of the 15th Annual Scottish Gathering and Games, happening April 10 at the fairgrounds. • Local band 1916 performs live before they rock the Scottish Games’ Ceilidh party. • Find out about the Psychic Faire and ghost hunt happening on April 11.

ciation. Plus, you could read a book or magazine from the donated library whilst drinking your mocha from their wide assortment of mismatched cups. Downtown’s local workforce soon became regular patrons. Instead of relieving some midday stress with a shot o’ Jack, you could take a detour to the Chaos bar with

some iced tea and get Haas’ point of view on your latest dilemma. Your feedback was welcome too in the “suggestion box,” but look forward to a hilarious, publicly posted response to your critique. No pretentious minds at work, just friends finding “a way” to live life according their own set of rules. There were other similar, locally owned businesses of the time — Old House Coffee on South Chester, the original Java Jazz “house” on 19th Street, and 18th St. Coffee, but nothing would compare to Chaos’ cultural impact on the local art scene. In fact, many of its teen regulars made professional names for themselves into adulthood, including slam poet Eirik Ott, aka, “Big Poppa E”, and musician Noah Glass, who helped create Twitter. Almost 15 years later, affectionate memories of everything consumed, heard, and smelled at Chaos still linger, conjuring up an endless list of questions… What happened to all the “Chaos kids,” or the “Lost Boys”

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

who often found a home in the basement? Did you see Cake play live at Chaos before they became alternative music stars? It’s impossible to retell the story of Chaos Coffeehouse within the confines of a weekly column. This story requires research and photos — and that’s where your help is needed. Chaos owner Rebekka Haas is looking for photos from days and nights at Chaos Coffeehouse during ’93-’95. You can reach Rebekka via her Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/rebekkahaas, or e-mail me your memories to contribute to an ongoing story I’m planning.

First Friday Art-Walk 19th and Eye streets, 5-9 p.m. Friday, 634-9598 (Metro Galleries). This monthly stroll through the downtown arts district returns for a Good Friday treat. Landing on a day of religious devotion for many might mean a smaller crowd than usual, but I’m sure the Lord appreciates good art like this. Metro Galleries features returning artists David Gordon’s in “Frond Frauds” and Tina Niswonger in “1st Impressions.” There’s also music by local torch singer Kama Ruby, who adds her unique voice to the Metro scene. Everything is for sale during First Friday, so make sure you also cross over to Kuka’s Folk Art and check out what your crib has been missing. Hopefully, the girls of BECA will be out whipping up righteous support for the arts, and Jen Raven will have a smile to share with the crowd.

Matt’s event picks Relay For Life Benefit shows at Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, $5, 322-8900. For two nights, local bands Near Miss Mallet, Nova & Friends, and

others perform for a good cause. Friday’s highlight is Near Miss Mallet, featuring the husband and wife team of Missy and Brock Wiggins. Their song “Miss America” is a light pop tune that gets regular play on my iPod, especially on Sundays. Saturday’s show marks the return of Ridgecrest’s Barstool Saints. Making the trek from the desert pretty regularly, their hard-edge rockabilly helps them collect more fans each visit. If they’re too loud, you can always chill with resident strummer Chrisanova, who probably has more songs in his head than the Library of Congress. Feel free to test his skills by requesting some Dr. Dre. Trust me on this. Paper Tongues and That That at BRyder’s, 7401 White Lane, 7 p.m. Saturday, $8, 397-7304. If you were lucky enough to see Paper Tongues’ unannounced show in December for KRAB’s Acoustic Christmas, you already know what this band is capable of live. Their self-titled debut CD is full of radio rock gems including “Trinity” and “Ride to California,” which sounds like Ronnie James Dio if he took up a rap career. I’m not poking fun, just stating the obvious and the fact that they do rock. On the other end of the spectrum are local electro openers That That, who’ve been caught on some odd pairings as of late. Last month, they opened for Australia’s Sick Puppies and now Paper Tongues. Could it be their easy three-piece set-up and breakdown that gets them these gigs? I should hope not. Their three-song demo is the perfect tease for what might be the grooviest thing since I saw Buck Owens sing “Play That Funky Music, White Boy” at the Crystal Palace. Their song, “Take It Off” is a Bakotopia Radio regular and perfect for bell bottom floor cuttin’.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, April 8, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Warmer weather means hot events B STEAK HOUSE

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2515 F Street • 322-9910 Lunch M-Fri 11-2 Dinner M-Thur 5-10 Fri & Sat 5-10:30 Maximum value of $6.95 only. One coupon per table or party. Not valid with any other offers or Holidays.

BUY 1 DINNER get 1 Free Dine in only Expires 4/30/10

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akersfield promoters have ambitious spring and summer plans, with three big show announcements made this week. Mark your calendars and handheld gadget reminders — you don’t wanna miss out on these shindigs. Let’s start with 106.1 KRAB Radio’s “Free 4 All III” outdoor concert Saturday, May 22, at Bright House Networks Amphitheatre. This year’s line-up features Hawthorne Heights, A Day To Remember (acoustic), Dan Black, Need To Breathe and Neon Trees. Last year’s crowd of more than 3,000 enthusiastic teens crammed the theater’s seats and lawn to hear some of the best up-and-coming acts in alternative rock all at no cost. KRAB radio’s Danny Spanks sees the free event as a way to say, “hello and thanks” to loyal listeners before retreating to their on-air lives. “This is our third year, and with all the great bands involved, it should be our best yet,” he said. “I’m especially looking forward to A Day To Remember’s acoustic set — it will be phenomenal.” Ready to sell you on some adult fun in the sun, the Active 20/30 Club of Bakersfield and Ugly Duck Marketing smuggled me the essentials on this year’s 18th annual Festival of Beers on Saturday, April 24, at Stramler Park. Ugly Duck’s Cory Jenkins wants to remind event-goers that the event is not just a brew fest. There are hot tunes on the agenda as well, courtesy of local bands Dub Seeds and The Afterparty, to keep you consuming in rhythm. There will be throngs of local lovelies fresh from winter gym training with high hopes of winning the title of “Miss Festival of Beers 2010.” “It’s Bakersfield’s official kick-off to the summer party season," Jenkins said. Tickets officially go on sale this Saturday at Lengthwise Brewery, 6720 Schirra Court; Hooters, 4208 Rosedale Highway; and other local outlets. For more information, visit www.bakersfieldfestivalofbeers.com. Still a couple of months away, we also have the 2010 Rockin’ Roots festival coming up, June 4-5, also at Stramler Park.

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM, KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth. This Sunday: • BECA (Bakersfield Emerging Contemporary Artists) talk about the upcoming downtown Street Faire on Thursday, April 15. • A preview of this year’s Coachella Music & Arts Festival April 16-18 in Indio. • Ridgecrest’s Bar Stool Saints stop by for an in-studio performance.

If you’ve followed the festival’s history, you already know that it began as an actual reggae music festival back in the early ’90s with dreadlocks and jerk chicken. Since then it’s morphed into an affordable mish-mash of local and big-name talent. This year’s motley crew of artists includes Hollywood Undead, Millionaires, Big B, Lee Rocker, Upground, Big B, Otep, Unwritten Law, among many others. Veteran promoter Tim Gardea, who produces this yearly festival of noise, promises even more mosh for your money complete with a pitch-perfect request for your attendance. “This year is gonna be bigger than ever,” Gardea said. “We’re having 180 bands, 14 stages, a jump bike competition on Friday, Miss Rockin’ Roots bikini contest, pro-wrestling and one ticket is good for two days.” Advance $40 tickets go on sale this Saturday at local retail outlets including: World Records & Going Underground, 1824 G St., Impact Streetwear & Mainland (Valley Plaza mall) and more. Tickets may also be purchased online: www.timgardeapresents.com.

Matt’s picks Chickenfoot Virtual Concert Tour at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 8 p.m. Thursday, $10, 324-2557. Warning: Rock supergroup Chickenfoot, featuring guitarists Sammy Hagar, Joe Satriani, drummer Chad Smith of the Red Hot Chili Peppers and bassist Michael Anthony of Van Halen, will not be live in Bako. However, through the power of HD technology and a very large movie screen, the five will materialize on the Fishlips stage via Santa Cruz-based Virtual

Venues Network and their traveling concert experience. Touting this thing as “The next best thing to being there,” all bets are it will be. When asked what to expect, Fishlips’ Andrew Wilkins convincingly responded, “Dude, they called me.” Rock on. 15th Annual Scottish Games & Ceilidh at the Kern County Fairgrounds, 9 a.m. Saturday, 393-6765. Having outgrown both Stramler Park and Bakersfield College venues, the 15th annual Scottish Games is both a family affair and Braveheartstyle brewaha. Bring the entire sept (family) out for a day of kilts and competition featuring some unbelievable displays of strength courtesy of some professional Caber-tossers (log and pole throwing) and hammer throwers. Thankfully, the fairgrounds offers the right amount of space for everyone to enjoy this cool event, with authentic Scottish foods and ice cold brew to wash it down. Kenny Mount of local band, The Filthies, will also be on hand with the Kern County Pirate Guild, so make sure to guard yer booty. When night falls, things get really wild during the Ceilidh (Kay-lee) concert/party with local Celtic rockers 1916 and guests Wicked Tinkers and Slugger O’ Toole whipping up a freaky frenzy. Psychic Faire & Ghost Hunt at Jackie’s Magical Treasures, 616 Jackson St., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, free, 328-0661. If you possess any psychic ability, you should already know what I’m about to say. No? Well, if you need a professional to help you with your psychic deficiencies, make plans to head over to Sunday’s Psychic Faire this Sunday in Old Town Kern. There will be everything from free psychic workshops, henna tattooing, bellydancing, art and a “Ghost Hunting” presentation by Todd Norton. Local ghost finders will also want to get in on the raffle to join local paranormal sleuths E.P.I.C. (Ethical Paranormal Investigations of California) as they attempt to find some local ghosties inside Jackie’s store later that evening. E.P.I.C. crew member “Michelle” informed me that no prior experience is needed to go on their hunt, as they will give you a brief training session beforehand. Just be sure you have an extra pair of underwear handy. Kidding…

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, April 15, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Getting in the spirit on search for ghosts A

First

Assembly

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4915 Stockdale Highway • 661-834-3068 Monday - Friday: 10-6 • Saturday: 10-5

fter interviewing local paranormal investigators E.P.I.C. for Bakotopia Radio last week, my co-host Miranda Whitworth and I took the group up on their offer to go on a local hunt last Friday. Like any fan of the “Ghost Hunters” TV show, we jumped at the chance. Also joining us was my son, Mark, who wasn’t about to stay home. As the day drew nearer, I didn’t know what to expect. Have you ever seen that movie, “The Entity”? With my luck, I’ll be followed home by a hitchhiking ghost! Once the word was posted on my Facebook, the scaredy-cat remarks began to pour on the screen. Once we newbie ghost hunters arrived at the private residence that chilly Friday night, we were greeted by Michelle Hall, along with Todd and Shawna Norton, all members of E.P.I.C. Before the other members arrived, we were given a brief training session on how the investigation would proceed. You could hear the nervous laughs between my son and I, and Miranda did her best to calm us down. “Oh you two, it’ll be cool,” she said. “Just have fun.” That was easy for her to say, especially after my son Mark decides to throw in a scene from a movie that made us sleep with the lights on for a couple nights. “Is this going to be like that movie ‘Paranormal Activity’ with ouija boards and growls?” he asked. Thanks to the professionalism of the E.P.I.C. team, our fears were calmed once the cool handheld gadgets came out. Night vision cameras, the K2 EMF (Electromagnetic Field) Meter, wide range thermometer, voice recorders, flashlights, and lots of batteries. No ouija boards and no fear of any possible possessions — this was looking more scientific than schlock. If you’re familiar with the “Ghost Hunters” TV program, you’ve heard how most of the equipment typically works. The K2 helps pick up energy fields in a room — if the K2’s lights begin flashing, that may signify a ghostly presence. A low temperature read in a room on the thermometer may also be an indicator

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM, KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth. This Sunday: • Preview of the 18th annual Festival of Beers at Stramler Park April 24. • The cast of “Rent,” currently running at the Spotlight, perform live. • Local band Missing Autumn performs

of “something unseen” in the room, and so on. They also made a point to explain possible haunt debunking through the evening. Off we went in three groups — Miranda with the first group, Mark and I with the second. Into the darkness with a small flashlight as our guide, we were asked to do “parameter readings” in each room for primary documentation before we set out to start asking “questions” of our possible ghostly guests. Almost immediately, my son felt a presence touch his shoulder and we all turned to his side to check for temperature readings and K2 levels. Fortunately for us, the excitement had just begun. During the rest of our 45minute investigation, we saw everything from a bedroom door open by itself, K2 lights flashing on command during a ghostly Q&A session, knocking noises, whistling, and other unexplained phenomena. Once our time was up, we were asked to keep quiet until all three groups were finished before swapping stories. Miranda and Shawna had the most experiences to share, as did Mark and Todd. Before we checked in our gear, we all gathered once more in the living room of the house to bid farewell to the spirits with a little game. Placing the K2 reader individually by each person in the room, we asked our “spirit” questions to see who might garner the biggest response. For Mark and I, this was the freakiest part of the night as the lights went crazy at our feet. The spirit must have had a thing for blondes too. Sitting on the sofa alone, Miranda caused all 5 K2 lights to blink wildly for almost three minutes straight. In the end, it was no

“Poltergeist” or “Paranormal Activity” (thank God), but for a Friday night in Bakersfield, pretty cool. And it doesn’t end there. There’s still the more than five hours of audio, video and photo evidence to sift through. But we’ll leave that to the pros at E.P.I.C. who said they’ll get back to us in about three weeks to go over results. We’ll keep you posted. If you’re interested in having E.P.I.C. investigate your home, e-mail: epic info@epicghosthunt.com or go to www.epicghosthunt.com. I’m off to the Coachella Music and Arts Festival in Indio Ca. for the next four days! Wanna go too? Visit: www.coachella.com, or stay tuned for photos from the fest at www.bakotopia.com in the coming week. I’m outta here!

Matt’s picks 800LB Gorilla, Reach Around Rodeo Clowns at B Ryder’s Bar, 7401 White Lane, 9 p.m. tonight, free, 3977304. What distinguishes Gorilla from others is the band’s own unique “cowpunk” musical style. Band members pull from their past musical occupations, and bassist Les Paw and vocalist Simon Faughn let their roots hang out loud and proud. Moonalice at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 9 p.m. Friday, $10, 324-2557. Moonalice is an all-star band of musical hippies featuring former Jefferson Starship bassist Jack Casaday and others. Formed by a wealthy musician-couple Roger and Ann McNamee, they’ve assembled an assortment of vets to perform as a classic rock jukebox. I caught them a couple years back when former SNL guitarist G.E. Smith was in the band and it was a blast. Smith left the lineup last year, but knowing the McNamees — they’ve already picked up another superstar axeman. Fourth annual Miss Festival of Beers 2010 pageant at The Nile, 1721 19th St., 10 p.m. Friday, 706-3138. Attention all local beauties: The Active 20-30 Club of Bakersfield requests your presence. With over $500 in cash and prizes, a professional photo shoot, and crowning at next weekend’s 18th annual Festival of Beers, libations and libidos should be at full tilt. I’ve been asked to pass on the requirements: 1) Have a good personality 2) Be good looking 3) Be in the mood to party.

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

Thursday, April 22, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Smokin’ good weekend Cheech & Chong show, beer festival on tap

repare for one of the greatest party weekends in Bakersfield history. Together again after a sold-out 2009 reunion tour, comedy legends Richard “Cheech” Marin and Tommy Chong make a stop at the Bakersfield Fox Theater at 8 p.m. Friday. During the 1970s and ’80s, there wasn’t a record collection that didn’t have at least one Cheech & Chong disc. Their ’71 self-titled album preached a love for herb, good times and mellowing out. Subsequent gold and platinum releases were “loaded” with “pounds” of hilarity, making them one of the hottest comedy duos in history. Who can forget their classic skits and songs, “Sister Mary Elephant,” “Mexican Americans” and “Earache My Eye?” Plus, everyone knows at least one “Dave” in their life. How many times have you answered, “Dave’s not here,” when the Dave you know comes knocking? Then there are the movies: “Up In Smoke,” “Next Movie,” “The Corsican Brothers” and others — all cult classics still found on cable. Taking a break to pursue solo careers in 1985, the two stayed busy in decades to follow. Proving that success hasn’t slowed them down — they’re back to their roots! Expect all your favorite characters to make an appearance at the Fox show, including “Pedro de Pacas” and maybe some music by tutu-wearing, “Alice Bowie.” As of Monday afternoon, only about 100 tickets remained, so if you want to go, pick up the phone now. Then it’s time hit the jungle trail for more. After all, with “Safari Adventure” as the theme of this year’s Active 20-30 Club’s 18th annual Festival of Beers from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday at Stramler Park, there’s no way exploring the virtues of cold brewski can get boring. The Festival of Beers takes six months of hard work to organize, and all money raised goes to children’s charities, an important fact the club would like all attendees to know. Some of these groups include M.A.R.E. (Mastering Abilities Riding Equines), the Police Activities League and the Boys & Girls Club of Bakersfield. This is true partying with purpose. “You can’t beat the great weather

TONY’S PIZZA MATT SAYLES / AP

Comedians Cheech Marin, right, and Tommy Chong, who broke up in 1985, have reunited for a tour that visits the Bakersfield Fox Theater on Friday.

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: • Local singer/guitarist Alex Mitts performs live in-studio. • A Relay For Life music preview with Vanity Avenue live. • Bike Bakersfield promos its 5th annual Criterium Race on May 1.

and all the fun,” said Active 20-30 Club president Cory Jenkins. “Everyone needs to come out and have a good time for a great cause.” For the $30 advanced ticket price or $40 at the gate, you also get hot local bands like Dub Seeds, The Afterparty, and DJ jams, courtesy of Sound Choice — PLUS the crowning of Miss Festival of Beers 2010. All elements add up to more than just your average beer bust. Don’t forget the VIP section, which grows bigger each year with more than 10 different restaurants inside and more beer! VIP tickets are limited at $100, so make sure to find a member and get them before they’re gone. Your Active 20-30 hosts also want to remind you that like any alcoholinfused frolic, the festival is for those 21 and over only, and there will be enough security provided to maintain party order throughout the day. For info, visit www.bakersfieldfestivalof beers.com, or call 706-3138.

Matt’s picks John Doe at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 9 p.m. Thursday, $10. This is how you start your Fishlips

10th anniversary weekend. Frazier Park resident musician and actor John Doe started out as bass player for Los Angeles punk band X in the ’70s. And just like punk brethren Henry Rollins and others, he grew up and became an actor, music composer and more. He still busts out the X classics live, along with his more recent countrified compositions. His live show is something to which every serious local songwriter should bear witness. The goose bumps will run, guaranteed. MURS at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 9 p.m. Friday, $15. The cult of MURS is something to see. Keeping it real for underground hip-hop fans, even after signing to a major label in 2008, rapper Nick Carter aka MURS loves his fans as much as they love him. The last time he came to Bako he gave us all the hits, even throwing in a Sublime cover that threw the audience into complete pandemonium. Go to youtube.com and put in search words “MURS Bakersfield” to see. Yes! The Beat Farmers and more at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 7 p.m. Saturday, $15. San Diego’s Beat Farmers helped popularize the musical style “cowpunk” in the ’80s with their alt-country hybrid style. If you were lucky enough to see late vocalist Country Dick Montana front the band back then, you’ll remember audiences carrying him from the stage to the bar during every show. Although they never received the recognition they deserved over the years, their legacy is strong. Openers 800 Lb Gorilla, Just Dave, and L.A.’s Paul Chesne are musical proof. Be prepared to sing-along during The Farmers’ performance of “Happy Boy.” “Hubba, hubba, hubba, hubba, hubba ... .” Kazoos are optional.

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

EXTRAORDINARY PIZZA AND NO COMPROMISE “Tony’s Pizza really piles it on!” -Pete Tittl

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Thursday, April 29, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Of rears and beers

DON’T MISS IT!

Concert etiquette tip No. 1: Sit down and let the rest of us see

ast Friday’s sold-out Cheech & Chong concert at the Fox featured a who’s who of scene makers — including local musician/tattoo artist Marc DeLeon, Thee Majestics’ Phillip Villanueva and Doug McAfee of Bakersfield NORML, among others. From opening comedian “Shelby,” who also happens to be the wife of Tommy Chong, the jokes were heavy on nostalgia and references to green, leafy substances. Yes, the two comedians are older and a little less energized than we’re used to seeing in the movies. But this was a 2010 Cheech & Chong. If you’re a true fan, just the sight of the two performing “Santa Claus and His Old Lady” verbatim was good enough to check off my personal bucket list. Attention Fox concert-goers: Why must some of you walk like zombies with arms extended into the reserved orchestra pit with your camera phones with no regard for the rest of us? Especially you — the tall, rather stout audience member who decided to station yourself at both center aisles to take photos all night. Security was nice to you, but you repeatedly caused a full derriere’s eclipse, blocking the view of people who paid for the “good seats.” As if that weren’t enough, you caused other zombie photo snappers to parade behind you and do the same all night. Maybe they should install portable tripping devices on the side of seats to deter such behavior? Saturday’s 18th annual Festival of Beers once again turned out to be quite the fabulous fandango. Thousands filed through Stramler Park to socialize and snap photos with passers-by. The Bakotopia.com booth was hopping with local art courtesy of BECA and music by DJ Mikey, much to the delight of Bakersfield’s wildest. I think I caught a few breakdancers cutting it up on the grass, but I could’ve been crazy from the heat. Check out all the photos from the event, including my 2010 Coachella round-up at: www.bakotopia.com/seen. Kudos to the Padre for featuring live local music with new weekly events like Sangria Sundays, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. outside in the Prairie

May 6 • 7:30pm • Call 800-745-3000 • Discounted tickets for Subscribers and Groups of 20 or more. Call 661-852-7309

TONY’S PIZZA PHOTO COURTESY OF JOSE TREVINO

Pink Ladies, from left, Paulette Engle, Priscilla Jaquez, Capi Zabala, Kimmy Dominguez and Christina Sweet at the Festival of Beers.

Bakotopia Radio

EXTRAORDINARY PIZZA AND NO COMPROMISE

9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Velorio performs live to promote the big Fishlips “Cinco de Mayo” party on May 5. Interview with comedian Jo Koy appearing at The Fox on May 7. Local world music jazzers Kelulu stop by for a performance.

Fire lounge. Based on some feedback I’ve received from frequent visitors to the place, it sounds like fun. But some advice to The Padre’s out-of-town owners: Continue getting to know your new city and the fickle entertainment interests of its inhabitants. Honeymoon periods can end quickly in this town.

Matt’s picks Kelulu at Sandrinis, 1918 Eye St., 9 p.m. Friday, $5. Advertised as the band’s “debut,” local world-music jazzers Kelulu have actually been performing for months around town. The group’s Gypsy Kingish style is heavy on passion, courtesy of vocalist/guitarist Noel Hernandez and pianist Jay Smith. Damage, Inc. at B Ryder’s, 7401 White Lane, 9 p.m. Saturday, $5. Southern California’s premier Metallica tribute band can literally imitate every hit from the speed-metal quartet’s handbook note for note.

“Tony’s Pizza really piles it on!” -Pete Tittl

2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE NEW 4750 COFFEE ROAD • 588-4700 4130 CALIFORNIA AVE • 325-4717

W W W. F O X T H E A T E R O N L I N E . C O M

MATT MUNOZ / BAKOTOPIA.COM

Bob Mothersbaugh of 1980s band DEVO performs at the Coachella Music & Arts Festival on April 17.

They may not look like Hetfield and crew, but once they start shredding — it’s like 1988 all over again. “RENT” at the Spotlight Theatre, 1622 19th St., 2 p.m. Sunday, $17-$20. Scaling down one of Broadway’s most beloved socially conscious musicals is one thing, but pulling it off is another. Primed from a solid few weeks of shows, you’d be wise to take a movie house detour and check out this classic take on Puccini’s “La Bohème.” Sunday, downtown, local theater, life is good …

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 6, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz 2NITE ONLY!

Make plain white T kind of blue for fest May 6 • 7:30pm • Call 800-745-3000 •

Discounted tickets for Subscribers and Groups of 20 or more. Call 661-852-7309

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2515 F Street • 322-9910 Lunch M-Fri 11-2 Dinner M-Thur 5-10 Fri & Sat 5-10:30 Maximum value of $6.95 only. One coupon per table or party. Not valid with any other offers or Holidays.

BUY 1 DINNER get 1 Free Dine in only Expires 5/31/10

Dine in only Expires 5/31/10

STEAK HOUSE 2515 F Street • 322-9910 Lunch M-Fri 11-2 Dinner M-Thur 5-10 Fri & Sat 5-10:30 Maximum value of $10.95 only. One coupon per table or party. Not valid with any other offers or Holidays.

Spend an evening with former CSUB wrestler and current New England Patriots lineman Stephen Neal and help keep the wrestling, golf and tennis programs at Cal State Bakersfield

Buffet and Silent/Live Auction Event Saturday, May 15 • 5:30 p.m. Jam Events Center • 1400 Norris Road

$50 per person Tickets are limited, call Tonya Eagle at 661-302-4455 for more information. Auction items include: • 2 tickets to New England Patriots home game (airfare, hotel included) • 1 week vacation beach front condo Pismo Beach • NFL merchandise: Stephen Neal and Tom Brady signed items • NASCAR: Kevin Harvick signed items, race suits, helmets • MMA items and much more

Donations can also be made at www.savebakersfieldwrestling.com • www.calstatetennis.org

f you’re planning on making it out to CSUB this weekend for the Bakersfield Jazz Festival, make sure you’re lookin’ good and ready to mingle. More importantly, keep the legacy of jazz alive by fashionably reppin’ its legacy. Forget Tommy Bahama shirts and Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses — take your love of America’s precious musical art form to heart. Have a shirt or outfit with a picture of Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, or Miles Davis on it? Wear it. Who cares if someone else has the same shirt — it’s all positive reinforcement. If you don’t have a jazzinspired shirt to wear — make one yourself. Write “Listen to Tito Puente” or “I am Kind of Blue” on a plain white or colored T with some fabric paint or even a Sharpie. If you wanna be ultracool among jazzers, go online and study free jazz violinist Leroy Jenkins, or spoken word jazz poet Gil ScottHeron and cover yourself in verses. Lady jazzers shouldn’t be ignored either — throw on some “I heart Billie Holiday” or “Nina Simone changed my life.” You may get some stares, but that’s jazz — fearless. In the wake of reggae rockers Sublime’s return to the touring circuit with new guitarist/vocalist Rome Ramirez, So Cal’s Dirty Heads have also hit the road. You may have heard their Sublime-ish song, “Lay Me Down,” on KRAB a million times a day, with vocals by Ramirez. We’ve heard it before, but to make a long story short — The Dirty Heads will be appearing live at B Ryder’s in Bakersfield on Friday, May 21, for an all-ages show. I saw them on last year’s Warped Tour, and while they were just OK, the show will most likely sell out. Call B Ryder’s at 397-7304 for more info. If you’ve never been to Fishlips’ open mic night on Tuesdays beginning at 9 p.m., you really should start. From the smiley guy who usually opens the show with his acoustic guitar, to the gal who reminds me of Regina Spektor behind the keys, you never know who will show up. Once I even caught an electro music duo with nothing more than a Mac laptop and 30 people, who left in unison after their friend’s problem-riddled three-

PHOTO COURTESY OF TAKEHIKO TOKIWA

Charlie Hunter, whose jazz tribute to Bob Marley’s “Natty Dread” album still gets regular play, will appear at the Bakersfield Jazz Festival this weekend.

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Alt-Christian band Switchfoot performs live in-studio. Barbara Minor of Arts Council of Kern promotes Walk for The Arts on May 15. Singer Pearl Aday, appearing at B Ryder's on May 14.

song set. But there are the gems throughout the night, some of whom are also regulars. Be polite and enjoy. Let’s play six degrees of Freddie Krueger, shall we? Bakersfield-born child actor Brandon Cruz starred in the original “Bad News Bears” with actor Jackie Earle Haley. Both will be appearing in Bakersfield on Friday — Cruz at The Dome, 2201 V St., with his punk band Dr. Know at 6 p.m.; and Haley is onscreen at your local movie house starring as your favorite, razorgloved slasher — Freddie Krueger in “Nightmare on Elm Street.” In addition to that odd local connection, they’ve both got faces only a mother could love. Speaking of which, happy Mother’s Day to my mom and all moms of Bakersfield this Sunday!

Matt’s picks Bakersfield Jazz Festival, CSUB Amphitheatre, 6 p.m. Friday and 1 p.m. Saturday. For two days, this annual “rite of spring” also doubles as one of the best fundraising social events of the year. Must-sees on this year’s lineup are blues pianist Marcia Ball, the Eastern groove of Hiroshima, and the incredible Charlie Hunter, whose jazz tribute to Bob Marley’s “Natty Dread” album still gets regular play. Dress comfortably and enjoy. Dr. Know, D.I. and more at The Dome, 5 p.m. Saturday, all ages, $12. Officially considered “old school” by punk rock aficionados, bands D.I. and Dr. Know are also two bands with ties to Hollywood. D.I. was featured in the ’80s cult film, “Suburbia,” and Dr. Know vocalist Brandon Cruz appeared in both TV and films. Bust out your old “Anarchy” shirt and relive the Reagan years all over again. Artifacts art show at Sacred Gypsy Tattoo, 826 18th St., Saturday, 7 p.m., all ages, $7. Not an anti-First Friday crowd, DIY art shows like this are a little edgier than regular fare. Artists Kritty, Bryn Von and Justin Foss along with local music by That That, DJs Josex and Chupacabra will most likely pair up some mind-bending multimedia for outsider art enthusiasts.

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 13, 2010

SATURDAY, MAY 15, 2010 PYLES BOYS CAMP

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Delicious BBQ Tri-Tip served from 12 noon - 5pm

Adults $15 • Kids under 12 FREE

Kern River Golf Course Picnic Grounds $10,000 IN PRIZES! Including Grand Prize 55” Big Screen TV (must be present to win)

Tickets at the gate on the day of the picnic or call 703-7663

INFORMATION CALL 805-5766 or 703-7663

AND NO COMPROMISE “Tony’s Pizza really piles it on!” -Pete Tittl 2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE NEW

4750 COFFEE ROAD • 588-4700 4130 CALIFORNIA AVE • 325-4717

Korn returns to the ’Dale for new video K

orn’s film crew landed in Oildale on May 5 to film a music video for their song “Oildale (Leave Me Alone)” off their upcoming album “Korn III: Remember Who You Are,” to be released sometime in the summer. I managed to find some secret YouTube location footage taken on the set. In the snippet, you can see lead vocalist Jonathan Davis rockin’ his original look — an Adidas sweatsuit, plus his infamous HR Giger mic stand. According to fan comments, the area looks like the “… alley between Lincoln and Decatur St.” I also found the Craigslist ad looking for prospective stars to appear in the video that read: “Specific parts available for tough kid (age 9-14) who is good on a bike, teenaged couple, middle-aged couple, and any interesting characters. Video is told from a kid’s skewed perspective, so weird is OK. Bring it on”! Yikes! Tickets for the band’s June 11 homecoming show at Rabobank are on sale now. In more semi-Korn-related news, Bakersfield’s Adema is back on the road. Original vocalist Marky Chavez (halfbrother of Korn’s Jonathan Davis), bassist Dave DeRoo, drummer Kris Kohls, guitarists Tim Fluckey and Mike Ransom are keeping the reunion flame alive by hitting clubs across the nation for appreciative fans. Now local fans can see the newly re-energized band in full form at The Dome, 2201 V St. on July 23.

More Paramore I’ve witnessed the youthful rock spectacle that is Paramore three times — the VANS Warped Tour 2007, opening for Jimmy Eat World at Rabobank in 2008 (when half the house emptied out after their set), and again with No Doubt last year. Live, they are one of the most entertaining young bands out right now. They write catchy songs, and vocalist Hayley Williams can easily out-sing her male peers on any given night. If you haven’t added their latest offering “Brand New Eyes” to your collection, you’re missing out on some primo pop rock, and easily one of last year’s best releases. For some really good stuff, go to YouTube and put in a search to check out the band doing acoustic covers of songs from Kings of

WWW.YOUTUBE.COM

Korn video footage is at www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWsMyPY7ajY.

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Interview with SoCal reggae rockers The Dirty Heads, appearing at BRyder's on May 21. The Silence Club's Aaron Novak performs live. Legendary drummer Vinny Appice, formerly of Black Sabbath. Appice will do a drum clinic at Guitar Center on May 21. Online Check out the new look of Bakotopia.com. Register for your free profile to stay in tune with all the latest local entertainment!

Leon (“Use Somebody”), Lady Gaga (“Bad Romance”), and others. Not to be outdone, we have our own set of young bands featuring ladyfronted rockers, namely: Cidona and Age of Trinity. Bakotopia Radio has featured these bands on-air, and both are well worth checking out. Find them online at: myspace.com/cidonamusic and myspace.com/ageoftrinity.

Millionaires cash out Looking to the upcoming Rockin’ Roots Festival happening June 4 and 5 at Stramler Park, we have some bad news — local faves the Millionaires’ have canceled their appearance at the festival. Apparently the girls have to

make up some missed UK dates and possibly hunt down dance-pop sensation Ke$ha for stealing their act.

Matt’s picks This Charming Band & For The Masses at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 9 p.m. Friday; $10. A tribute to ’80s icons The Smiths and Depeche Mode, this show should bring out lots of familiar faces, since Generation Xers love to relive moments of glory. Hopefully both bands will remind us of ’80s England in all its pompous pompadour glory — that and Bakersfield’s Magic 98FM. La Santa Cecilia, Velorio and Sonsoles at Club Odyssey inside the DoubleTree Hotel, 8 p.m. Friday; $5. L.A.’s bilingual sextet La Santa Cecilia are part of a continuing wave of young Latino musicians taking the music of their upbringing and retooling it for hip listeners. They even throw in some Jewish Klezmer rhythms that’ll have you doing the Latin pogo. Opening the show is Velorio — still recovering from Cinco de Mayo at Fishlips. Pearl, State of Insomnia & Dave Rude Band (formerly of Tesla) at B Ryder’s, 7401 White Lane, 8 p.m. Friday; $10. Vocalist and Meatloaf’s daughter Pearl Aday, along with hubby Scott Ian, guitarist for Anthrax, will be rocking out with members of the Rollins Band and more. Local openers State of Insomnia will cause you nightmares with their sinister makeup and Satano-rock. Even scarier is Dave Rude formerly of Tesla, also on the bill.

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 20, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Keeping it indie and local Pop radio-friendly Petree features a pair of hometown players

AND NO COMPROMISE “Tony’s Pizza really piles it on!” -Pete Tittl

etree’s indie spirit is quite an anomaly. Signed to a major label — Dream / Universal — the L.A.-based quartet plan on avoiding the pitfalls of industry excess by taking the local road first, kicking off with a CD release party Saturday at The Prime Cut. Their just-released, perfectly crafted debut, “Weakness Makes You Beautiful,” is full of pop radio-worthy hits. But instead of the summer festival circuit, they’ve chosen to rock the hometown of guitarist Aaron Joseph Bakotopia Radio and drummer Adam 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on Welch. Joseph and Welch, 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio along with bandmates Hosts: Matt Munoz and and Oklahoma transMiranda Whitworth plants Stephen Petree on vocals and bassist Dave This Sunday: Eropkin, know the value Interview with Kyle Gass of Trainwreck and Tenacious D of a grass-roots following. “The local scenes — we Preview of the OC wanna pour into that,” Supertones concert at said Petree via telephone Jesus Shack on May 28 from Oklahoma City of Exclusive in-studio the band’s strategic performance by Petree choice to begin marketing themselves at home. “We want to put our heart back into the community that embraces us. It really takes the synergy between the two — to cause a scene and make something happen.” Before this project, Petree already had ties to the majors through his brother Chad, a member of L.A. electronica rock band Shiny Toy Guns. Co-writing many of the band’s early material, including their hit, “Le Disko,” he was offered a development solo deal. “Chad, and I moved from Oklahoma and started writing songs — not necessarily to play live, but to record,” explained Petree. “We wrote, ‘Le Disko,’ ‘Raining Monday,’ ‘You Are The One’ and most of the stuff you hear on both of the Shiny Toy Guns records.” Around the same time, Aaron Joseph began making connections with Petree during frequent trips to L.A. for drum lessons with famed rock drummer, Zoro. “I was taking lessons with Zoro for about four to five years back in L.A.,” said Joseph. “Zoro introduced me to Stephen, who in turn helped me out with voice coaching. He was writing and I just happened to be around.” The musical chemistry between Petree and Joseph subsequently led to recording, where they began working on Petree’s solo sessions along with bassist Eropkin. Pushing themselves creatively, plans for the band began to change. “The record company really wanted this to be a solo thing,” said Petree. “But as the music started taking form, so did the band. The musicians I was using in the studio ended up not being jerks, so we ended up playing shows together.” Joseph, who had already made the commitment to stay in L.A. to continue pursuing a full-time music career, also kept in touch with former Bakersfield bandmates, namely drummer Adam Welch. Getting the call to join the band, Welch stepped up to become the band’s new drummer at the recommendation of Joseph, now on guitar. “I just feel privileged and honored to have the connection with Aaron Joseph and be able to step into his shoes, which are honestly big shoes to fill,” said Welch of his new gig.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PETREE

Petree, from left: Aaron Joseph, Adam Welch, Stephen Petree and Dave Eropkin.

Petree CD Release Party Where: The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road When: 10 p.m. Saturday Admission: $10 (21 and over only) Information: 831-1413

Now officially a band in 2009, the four musicians began playing shows around the L.A. area to polish their act; enter MTV and a potential hit on their hands. “We were just playing a house party, the album wasn’t out, and we weren’t even trying to push our first single, ‘She Set It,’” explained Petree. “A guy from MTV happened to be there and heard us play it. We just thought he was drunk. But it wasn’t that at all — he really liked the song. Two weeks later, ‘She Set It’ was on “The Hills.” Striking while it’s hot, they took full advantage of the opportunity. “We threw the song out, because we’re not going to refuse that kind of promotion,” explained Petree. “Even though we are on a major label with Universal, we’re still just a solid indie band looking for airplay.” Available nationwide in stores and online, “Weakness Makes You Beautiful,” boasts some all-star guests including Stephen’s brother Chad, and P-Funk legend/guitarist RonKat Spearman among others. “There was this janitor at the studio we were working out of,” remembered Petree of his first meeting with the funk legend. “One day, he told me, ‘Dude, you gotta meet this guy, he’s the black version of you, man!’ Two weeks later he’s in the studio with us.” Planning more local and L.A. shows in the future, Petree wants new listeners to know they’re committed to winning you over. “Every interview, TV show, and acoustic gig — we’re up to doing it. We want to connect it with people instantly, rather than wait six months to deliver,” he said.

The Dirty Heads SoCal reggae-rockers The Dirty Heads make their Bakersfield debut on Friday at B Ryder’s, 7401 White Lane, at 7 p.m. Currently riding a tide of popularity with their radio hit “Lay Me Down” featuring new Sublime vocalist, Rome Ramirez. Their newly re-released 2008 CD “Any Port In A Storm” has just been re-released as a 22-song “Special Edition” package. Produced by Mario Caldato Jr. — best known for his work with the Beastie Boys — it’s a welcome addition to any summertime party playlist. Also on the bill are local bands Dub Seeds, Vanity Avenue, and Fresno’s Mah-Op. Tickets are $15, show is all ages. Call 397-7304 for info.

2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE NEW

4750 COFFEE ROAD • 588-4700 4130 CALIFORNIA AVE • 325-4717

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

Thursday, May 27, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz BANG!

Packing the ’House Concert a hit; festival adds Good Charlotte

RAB’s Free 4 All III concert at Bright House Amphitheatre last Saturday was a literal party out of bounds, especially if you were looking for a place to park. Thousands of kids and cool parents willing to brave the teenage social scene packed out the lawn and rocked out until curfew. The scene was wild but peaceful in a way our local youth should be applauded for. In talking with some KRAB radio staffers throughout the evening, it was agreed they might need a bigger place to hold all the fans next year. BC’s Memorial Stadium, and CSUB’s outdoor amphitheater always comes up in conversation as possibilities, but even the latter might not be big enough. Promoter Tim Gardea gave me the latest news regarding this year’s Rockin’ Roots festival happening on June 4 and 5 at Stramler Park. Thankfully, there are no cancellations to report this week. Just added to Saturday’s lineup are All Time Low, Boys Like Girls, and pop punkers Good Charlotte featuring the Madden brothers, Joel and Benji. Known more recently for their tabloid trials via celebrity starlet flings and weightlifting photos, the Maddens have decided to get “back to their roots.” According to online sources, the band will have a new album out in the middle of summer. Ticket info at: timgardeapresents.com. This past Sunday afternoon, the Wall Street Alley and surrounding downtown areas were the scene of a “secret” movie filming. Local musician Chris Taylor of the band Dub Seeds who was on his way to morning breakfast decided to do a little drive-by reporting for us. “They were doing most of the filming on 19th and Eye,” said Taylor. “They decorated the Syndicate and Riley’s storefronts with graffiti-painted plywood to make it look really rough, plus newspaper all over the place. There were about 100 people in the production crew walking around, and it looked like they had two different scenes going on including a bus stop scene with a guy and a cane, and at one of the doorways where it was set up like a homeless person’s den.” Sounds like a cross between “Ghost World”

COURTESY OF JEREMY GONZALEZ

Concert-goers packed the Bright House Amphitheatre for the KRAB 4 All III.

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Music preview of 2010 Rockin’ Roots Fest and interview with headliner Hollywood Undead. In-studio performance by local rising stars Cidona.

AND NO COMPROMISE “Tony’s Pizza really piles it on!” -Pete Tittl 2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE NEW

Tyler Glenn of Neon Trees performs at the KRAB’s Free 4 All III.

and some ’80s music video if you ask me, but who knows? We’ll keep you posted. Thanks, Chris! Local band Cidona needs your help getting signed to MySpace Records through Toyota’s “Rock The Space II” online competition. Just visit their MySpace music page at: myspace.com/cidonamusic and check out drummer Josiah’s video posted on the right-side panel. He’ll give you instructions on how you can help their cause. Semi-finalists will be announced on June 17, so after you read my column — go directly to your computer and help spread the word.

Matt’s picks “Jukebox Legends” at The Empty Space, 706 Oak St., 8 p.m. Thursday to

Saturday, $10 to $15, 327-PLAY. At first I thought this was a rehashing of the Spotlight’s “History of Rock ’n’ Roll” series, but I was wrong. An interactive musical theater experience, audience members get to choose the songs performed like a living jukebox. Show director Thomas G. Robinson who can belt out a mean “Me and Mrs. Jones” on command knows his stuff, so you can bet things will be rockin’. OC Supertones at Jesus Shack, 1326 30th St., 6:30 p.m. Friday, $15 to $35, 324-0638. This cool all-ages show features the reunion of legendary Christian ska band the OC Supertones. Taking a break in 2005, the band has re-formed for 12 shows spreading the good word through the sounds of punk-infused Jamaican rhythms. Yes, there will be horns — just not the devilish kind. Silent Treatment at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 9 p.m., Saturday, $5, 324-2557. Regular visitors from LA, Silent Treatment are true believers of the almighty rock riff. Road dogs who lose their shirts if the ladies get wild, these guys are a blast onstage and welldeserved of more local attention.

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

4750 COFFEE ROAD • 588-4700 4130 CALIFORNIA AVE • 325-4717

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 3, 2010

Art Express at the Curiosity Shop Featuring Leslie VoVilla LAST First Friday! 1607 - 19th Street, 324-7112 Kathy and Charles Davis

Terry & ’s Charlotte

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Rockin’ Roots ‘becoming FREE a brand’ in Bakersfield

Buy 1 Dinner & Get 1

Mon-Fri, 11-2 HOURS Lunch: Dinner: Mon-Thurs, 5-10;

STEAK HOUSE 2515 F Street • 322-9910

Fri & Sat, 5-10:30

Dine In Only Expires 6-30-10

Maximum value of $10.95 only. One coupon per table or party. Not valid with any other offers or Holidays.

Terry & ’s Charlotte

Buy 1 Lunch & Get 1

FREE

Mon-Fri, 11-2 HOURS Lunch: Dinner: Mon-Thurs, 5-10;

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Fri & Sat, 5-10:30

Dine In Only Expires 6-30-10 Maximum value of $6.95 only. One coupon per table or party. Not valid with any other offers or Holidays.

Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra John Farrer, Music Director

AUDITIONS Tuesday Evening, June 8, 2010 For more information and audition times, call 323-7928

here’s nothing quite like the local spectacle that is Rockin’ Roots. The biggest annual all-ages concert to hit the Central Valley once again invades Stramler Park in Bakersfield this weekend for two days — Friday beginning at 4 p.m., then on Saturday at 10 a.m. Produced by promoter Tim Gardea, the longest-running locally produced rock festival has evolved from its mellow reggae-music beginnings to a giant multi-stage affair. “We’re more of a true festival,” said Gardea. “Instead of just one style of music, Rockin’ Roots is a mash-up of all the bands and shows I do in Bakersfield and Fresno.” Similar to the national touring VANS Warped Tour, 13 strategically placed stages will grace the Stramler grounds — blasting the sounds of local and nationally touring acts. Comparing it to a migraine in its early days, Gardea admits things have gotten a little easier to pull together. “The toughest part is just making it all fit like a puzzle, from scheduling, contract negotiating, permits, security,” he explained. “My phone never stops ringing. Just right now, I’ve already sent four calls to voicemail.” Headlining Friday’s lineup are MySpace phenoms Hollywood Undead, electro brats Hyper Crush, post-hardcore rockers The Bled, local bands Automatic Redial and Fading Out Silence, among other fashionable noisemakers. “Rockin’ Roots is becoming a brand name,” said Gardea of the festival’s growing reputation. “We bring the bands that will never hit our market, especially now that Warped Tour doesn’t even hit Fresno anymore.” The crowded flier currently in circulation lists a varied but strong lineup. At the top of Saturday’s list is Santa Barbara reggae band Rebelution, controversial rapper Mickey Avalon, popsters Good Charlotte, emo rockers Boys Like Girls, Unwritten Law, along with DJ Mikey, Big B, Vogue In The Movement and more … lots more. One addition to this year’s festival is the rockabilly-punk stage featuring acts catering to the popular Bako pin-up / punk set. Geared more toward an older crowd, it plans on being a mini-Hootenanny showcasing artists like

CALIFORNIAN FILE

Chris Preece, lead singer of New England-based group Vanna, leans out into the crowd while performing at the Rockin’ Roots Festival in 2008.

Rockin’ Roots 2010 When: 4 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. Saturday Where: Stramler Park, 3805 Chester Ave. Admission: $45 (two-day admission) Information: timgardeapresents.com

The Stray Cats’ Lee Rocker, LA’s Bourbon Saints, punk heroes The Adolescents, Guttermouth, The Mentors and more. “This is not just a younger style event,” explains Gardea of the larger Gen X mix of artists appearing this year. “Artists like Lee Rocker have an older fanbase who also appreciate new music.” Local ladies can also enter the “Miss Rockin’ Roots 2010” contest, or check out the Cajones Freestyle Moto X jump bike exhibition and classic car show. “Rockin’ Roots isn’t just for a 15year-old kid,” said Gardea. “There’s really something for everybody.” Each $45 ticket gets you two days of all-ages Rockin’ Roots madness. For more info, visit: www.timgardeapresents.com.

Mystery film shoot details Rickey Bird of Hectic Films came forth to give us the lowdown on last weekend’s mystery film shoot. It turns out Bird and his partner, Jason Sanders, were hired to film the latest music video for the song, “The Chosen One,” by Islamic soul singer, Maher

Zain of Sweden. Bird’s description of the video had me scratching my head by the time he mentioned some of the cast. “It was kind of a ‘pay it forward’ theme, where people are shown giving and helping each other,” said Bird. “We cast George ‘The Giant’ McArthur in a few scenes.” While there’s no release date yet, fans eagerly awaiting the video’s upcoming premiere can check out Maher Zain at: facebook.com/ MaherZain.

Matt’s Pick E-40 and Too Short at The Nile, 1721 19th St., 8 p.m. Friday, $31 to $101, 324-1369. Two Bay Area legends of hiphop join forces for what will most definitely be a night of bouncing beats and audience rap-along participation. Both highly respected in rap circles, they understand the power of the almighty hook with songs like, “Blow The Whistle,” and “Tell Me When To Go.”

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Special extended interview with KORN’s Jonathan Davis before the band’s hometown show on June 11. In-studio performance by Out Of Frame.

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 10, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Bands know road to success is ... the road

AND NO COMPROMISE “Tony’s Pizza really piles it on!” -Pete Tittl 2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE NEW

4750 COFFEE ROAD • 588-4700 4130 CALIFORNIA AVE • 325-4717

ts y f i G fect r’s Da r e P athe F For

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Korn was no overnight sensation. It took years of touring, sleeping in smelly vans, breaking down on the side of the road, bad food, crappy gigs, and of course — putting friendships to the test. “Give it 100 percent and play, play, play — that’s what we did,” said Korn vocalist Jonathan Davis during a recent interview when I asked about advice for his fellow Bakersfield band brethren. “There’s no formula on how to make it big. If you’re doing what you love and feel passionate about it, getting your music out there, then hopefully that’s what’s gonna make it happen.” Local bands Dub Seeds, Velorio and performer Marc DeLeon, considered touring “road dogs” among their peers, know this all too well. “It’s a chance to spread your sound,” said Chris Taylor, 34, of reggae rock band Dub Seeds of their choice to travel. “You can hone your skills on the road and get new fans — which you can’t do anything without.” With a sound perfect for sunny beaches and parties, Taylor and crew hit coastal college towns regularly but admit the welcome mat isn’t always put out. “A lot of venues wanna know you have a big local draw before they book you,” he said. “If you’ve performed with bigger names, that helps get you in the doors.” Taylor adds that business smarts will take you a lot further than a show payout, and to just enjoy the experience. “We have merchandise to help supplement our expenses,” he explained. “The trip alone is going to be an unexpected adventure. Just roll with the punches and have fun.” Veteran musician and tattoo shop owner, DeLeon — currently a member of ’80s shock rockers The Mentors — appreciates the mystery of touring. Driving, on the other hand … “You have to deal with the whining and the crying of sometimes nine people in a vehicle,” said DeLeon, 41, who’s toured alongside bands like Adema and Shadow Project, among others. “When someone gets out there and finds out they’re not as popular when they hit the road, they get hurt and it makes everything tough.” Beyond the claustrophobic conditions and realities of non-local fame, DeLeon admits that while some friendships are tested, new connections

COURTESY OF VELORIO

Velorio, from left: Jason Blakely, Adrian Nevarez, Alvaro Caceres, Eric Powers, Ben Gomez. The band performs at Fishlips Friday before heading out on tour.

GO & DO ‘Grad Party’ Presented by Bakotopia and Fishlips, with Mento Buru, Velorio and DJ Mikey When: 9 p.m. Friday Where: Fishlips Bar & Grill, 1517 18th St. Admission: $5; 21 and over only Information: bakotopia.com or 324-2557.

are always made. “You always end up meeting people who become lifetime friends,” he said. “You can go to a town 10 years ago, then return and they remember you.” This fall The Mentors hit the road again, with plans for a European stint in the making — a musical trip DeLeon looks forward to. “There’s nothing like a paid vacation to Europe, playing every night,” he laughed. Kicking off their latest road campaign with a show Friday at Fishlips in downtown before heading to Eugene, Ore., Latin rockers Velorio have learned to respect the road over the years. “There’s always a different situation,” explained Velorio lead vocalist Alvaro Caceres, 27, of the unavoidable problematic nature of touring. “We’ve gone to a five-star venue, and our set-

time goes from a 30-minute set to 10 minutes. Once we chased a promoter from L.A. out to her car to get our money. When we confronted her she said, ‘Sorry, there’s no money.’” Regardless of the circumstances, Caceres, relishes the moments with his band — especially when there’s a breakthrough. “In Chicago, we walked around the city with our iPods, cell phones, and some headphones,” he remembered. “We invited people to listen to our music, and sometimes they would buy a CD or just follow us to the gig.” Taylor reminds others in town that while touring can help a career, always be prepared for what might happen next. “Our old bassist fell in love with some girl during a show in Vegas, and never made it back home,” he laughed. “We’ve since replaced him.”

BAKOTOPIA RADIO Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Local comedy troupe R.A.T. In-studio performance by Less Weight For Atlas Local beer pong enthusiasts PONG661

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 17, 2010

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The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

No Marley, no cry: Original Wailers here

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akersfield hosts some musical legends both in-person and in tribute this week. Tonight's big reggae show at Fishlips featuring The Original Wailers is a biggie. Yes, those Wailers of Bob Marley fame. Guitarist/vocalists Al Anderson and Junior Marvin who performed with the mighty dreaded one during the ’70s and ’80s are on the road again. From classics “Natty Dread” to “Uprising,” the two have been performing non-stop since Marley's passing in '81 — touring alongside artists like Lauryn Hill, Ben Harper and others. Today, they still provide the righteous roots. The show lights up at 8 p.m. with local openers Dub Seeds and Vanity Ave. Call Fishlips at 324-2557 for info. Get up, stand up and be there. Local '80s tribute band Members Only has been popping up around town a lot. Inspired by the decade that brought us Madonna and Devo, their wacky tacky costumes and set lists are a blast. Featuring a cool lineup that includes Backup Johnny's Joey Romley, Adema's Dave Deroo, and drummer Cesareo Garasa, you can catch them free tonight at The Marketplace at 7 p.m. Bring your kids, sport your old Cavaricci shorts and Jellies sandals, and be prepared to dance like a “totally bitchin' dork.” On Friday, Jerry's Pizza basement hosts UK punk marvels GBH. I still own my original vinyl of '84s “City Baby's Revenge,” and musically it holds up really well. I caught them live at the Warped Tour a couple years back and they tore up the place. “This one's for all the 40-year-olds out there — we rock,” yelled spiky vocalist Collin Abrahall. And rock they did. Show starts at 7 p.m. and costs a very punk $15. Equipment theft seems to be an epidemic with many of our local musicians lately. Guitars, drums, and yes, even DJ turntable needles can disappear within seconds. Try these

Al Anderson and Junior Marvin of The Original Wailers

headache-saving tips: 1) Hire a trusting friend/roadie to pack up and deliver your gear safe and securely after a show. 2) Don't leave your equipment outside in your car overnight — especially if you have a hatchback. 3) If you can't take your equipment with you after a show — ask the club owner nicely if you can store it somewhere safely, and not onstage. 4) Don't leave your gear unattended for too long at a venue. I've had my share of laziness after a gig, but when you've invested a lot of money, plan ahead. Although the police and local pawn shops can sometimes help in reclaiming your stolen gear, don't hold your breath.

Matt’s picks Country Throwdown at Rabobank Convention Center and Arena, 1 p.m. Friday, $30 to $33.50, 852-7777. Headliner Jamey Johnson, who bears a strange resemblance to both Rob Zombie and Bakersfield's Dustin “Catfish” Meridith, is a bad mofo. It's hard to imagine that this is the same guy who co-wrote, “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk,” but I doubt anyone

will laugh to his face. Be prepared to have your faith in country music restored. Punk VS Ska at The Dome, 5 p.m. Saturday, $10 to $12, all ages, 3270190. Whether you're into punk or ska music, this all-ages show is a bargain. L.A.'s Banda Skalavera and The Briggs are worth the price of admission alone, and never fail to get the crowds wound up. Mind your circle pit etiquette and be nice, boys and girls.

BAKOTOPIA RADIO 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Preview of Jeffree Star show at Jerry’s June 24 In-studio performance by Age of Trinity Local comedians Joe Alaniz, Brian Ross and Dane Forst

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 24, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

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Matt’s picks

ast Friday’s Country Throwdown at Rabobank managed to rock the house as planned, I hope. Although the show kicked off while most of Bakersfield was still at work at 1 p.m., I did manage to catch a quick glimpse later in the day. Walking into the theater at 5 p.m., I caught Cali-country singer Heidi Newfield singing (and stage diving) away much to the delight of die-hard fans. The beer line was growing and a steady stream of cowboy hats began herding in as 6 p.m. drew near. Unfortunately, I missed the “Bluebird Café” stage performances along with most of Bakersfield earlier in the day. I also couldn’t catch the rest of the performances due to a scheduling conflict. But based on what I read via Facebook and Twitter, the locals seemed to have a good time into the evening with Montgomery Gentry and Jamey Johnson getting rave reviews. Hopefully, next year’s stop will be on a Saturday, so workin’ folks like myself and others can plan accordingly. Speaking of conflicting plans … Two comedy shows go head to head this Saturday. First it’s “Laughter Comedy” with funnymen Dane Forst, Joe Alaniz, Chase Brockett, Brian Ross and Ernesto Gomez at Desi Café, 4837 Panama Lane. That show kicks off with an 8 p.m. open mic hour. I’ve seen them all, with the exception of Gomez — but with a face like that, he has to

PHOTO COURTESY OF MANNY MALDONADO

Manny Maldonado will be among the comedians performing on Saturday night at Fishlips.

be funny. Over at Fishlips downtown, comedian Manny Maldonado is live with Bako’s own Jim Trino, Ro Delle Grazie and more. That show kicks off at 8 p.m. too, so if you’re struggling with which show to attend, flip a coin. Summertime means the VANS Warped Tour is here again, hitting SoCal tomorrow in Carson at the Home Depot Center, and then Sunday in Ventura at Seaside Park. This year’s lineup is as eclectic as ever with Alkaline Trio, Eyes Set To Kill, The Adolescents (a Rockin’ Roots no-show,) Voodoo Glow Skulls, alongside some odd bookings (Sum 41, Andrew WK,) and tons more. Looking to avoid this weekend’s heat? Catch the Ventura show like most of Bakersfield will, and enjoy some mid-60 coolness. If you can’t leave town, Sandrini’s in downtown celebrates its fifth anniversary tomorrow night with music from Velorio at 9 p.m. Back from a weeklong tour to Oregon, the band managed to make it home safely aboard their touring vessel — a converted shortbus that runs on restaurant

Les Dudek at Fishlips, 8 p.m. today, $20, 324-2557. Famous for his stint with the Allman Brothers Band, where he played lead guitar on “Ramblin’ Man,” Dudek’s been around. From the Steve Miller Band to Boz Skaggs and more, his bluesy riffs are highly recommended. Jeffree Star and Brokencyde at Jerry’s Pizza, 1817 Chester Ave., 6 p.m., Thursday, $17, 633-1000. If you’re into the bizarre and unusual, this is the show for you. Part alien, Jeffree’s music is pure debauchery with titles like “Eyelash Curlers & Butcher Knives,” and “Plastic Surgery Slumber Party.” Not recommended for a first date. Blood, Spit, and Tears art show at Sacred Gypsy Tattoo, 826 18th St., 7 p.m., Saturday, $7, 323-7179. Check out some great tattoo art from some of the area’s best inksters, plus plenty of local outsider art from Kritty and more. There’s also music from Backup Johnny, Il Sogno, The Indians and DJ Josex, who specializes in all things “darkside.” Last event they had was packed, so don’t be late!

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Preview of Nick13 show at Fishlips on June 30 In-studio performance by Keaton York Local paparazzo Xavier Zamora of Prankstars

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

JAZZ IT UP SUNDAY AT LAST CONCERT IN BEALE SUMMER SERIES THE BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN

Beale Memorial Park ends its monthlong series of free concerts this Sunday with Bakersfield’s Jazz Couriers ensemble. Led by drummer Dan Murillo, the Jazz Couriers also features CSUB’s Doug Davis on piano; bassist Glenn Fong; trumpeter Mike Raney, trumpet; Roy Medina on congas, saxophonist Isaiah Morfin; and guitarist Paul Cierley. The band will be performing a collection of jazz and pop standards along with original compositions in

been performing for decades, went into action. She collected enough funds to keep Who: The Jazz Couriers the 71-year-old concert tradition alive, When: 8 p.m. Sunday although the large band was replaced Where: Beale Memorial Park, by smaller ensembles — a clarinet 500 Oleander Ave. choir, the Southside Chicago Seven, Brass a la Carte and the Jazz Couriers Information: 323-7928 — for the four June shows. Although the city didn’t sponsor any of these various ensembles forms. concerts, it provided a sound system After the city voted to cut funding and custodial service for the events. totalling $17,000 for the summer Blankets, lawn chairs, and a picnic band program in March, Cyndi Hicks, are welcome. Early arrival is recommanager of the concert band that has mended.

Free concert

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, July 1, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Moonstruck (or flaky?) performers Band, comedians skip local shows

Bakotopia Radio

lame wild lunar activity or bad luck, but three local shows mysteriously went awry last weekend. Starting with Backup Johnny’s appearance Friday at Fishlips — where attendees were greeted with news that their favorite band had suddenly “backed out.” “We double-booked ourselves,” said lead singer Joey Romley of his band’s MIA status. “Had it been somewhere else we would’ve kept the gig, but we didn’t wanna screw up somebody’s wedding.” Apologizing for their absence, coincidentally also the night of a rare lunar eclipse, Romley offered up some consolation. “Come to the next show, and I’ll buy you a drink,” he said. Saturday’s full moon took the night sky’s bizarre energy to a whole other level with two more cancellations that included Latin jazzers Kelulu. “I got a text message from Kelulu on Friday night, saying they couldn’t play on Saturday,” said Fishlips co-owner Andrew Wilkins. The band was to perform after comedian Manny Maldonado’s appearance at the club that evening. “When something like that happens, we scramble. Guitarist Travis Byler ended up playing into the evening. He bounces for us, so it helps having musicians on staff,” he laughed. Back over at Desi Cafe in the southwest that night, comedian Joe Alaniz was the last comic standing. “I can honestly say I don’t know what happened with that show, said Alaniz of the canceled “Laughter Comedy” showcase where he and a group of local funnymen were scheduled to appear. “We had headliners that didn’t come through, but we promise to make it up to everyone who supported us.” While Kelulu could not be reached for comment, Alaniz did offer up his own take on who’s to blame for the weekend’s collective mishaps. “It was definitely the full

9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Local alt-lifestyle girl group The Cherry Bombs. In-studio performance by local singer-songwriter Landen Belardes. Bakersfield music promoter T. Rockwell of Trout’s.

moon,” he said. “Something has to get blamed besides the show organizers, right? Let’s blame it on environmental pressures and BP!” On a cooler note, Sunday’s Vans Warped Tour show in Ventura was another hit. Sixty-five degrees under overcast skies, music fans of all ages packed into Seaside Park without fear of frying. Among the locals spotted taking in the annual out-of-town festivities were The Dome’s Pete Madera, Lady Lace of the Kern County Rollergirls, photographer Jessica Moncrief and KRAB’s Miranda Whitworth. The day’s highlights included mosh-tastic sets by punk rock vets Fear and Angry Samoans, whose singer resembled Smeagol from “The Lord of The Rings” in retro gym shorts. Meanwhile, over on one of the larger stages, comeback kid Andrew W.K. preached “partying hard” to an enthusiastic crowd. Joined onstage by a sequined Tae Bo dancing backup singer, W.K. simultaneously pounded on his keyboard, guitar and skull. Not to be outdone, electro-hoppers 3OH!3 made a special surprise appearance later in the afternoon in front of a few thousand rabid fans. Recently awarded a “one-star rating” by Rolling Stone for their new CD, “Streets of Gold,” that didn’t hinder Miranda from dancing along to the band’s latest hit, “My First Kiss.” But more often than not, your best bets are on the side stages. Fronting her band, The Pretty Reckless, “Gossip Girl” star Taylor Momsen stood tall atop some very high heels. Singing tracks off the band’s solid self-titled EP, she hid behind her flowing blonde locks for most of the show. Tucked away by the beer gardens, early arrivals were treated to some righteous

MATT MUNOZ / BAKOTOPIA.COM

“Gossip Girl” actress Taylor Momsen sings with her band, The Pretty Reckless.

Irish pub rock, courtesy of L.A.’s The Mighty Regis, making their Warped debut. Much like their Irish rocking counterparts, Flogging Molly, the band’s origins can be traced to area dive bars. “We originally started this band so we could drink for free; now here we are,” laughed Mighty Regis lead vocalist Franky McNorman. “Hopefully, we’ll have more fans than hangovers by the time we get to Charlotte.” For tons of photos from the Ventura Vans Warped Tour, visit bakotopia.com.

Matt’s picks Tall Dark & 90, Mento Buru, Dub Seeds, DJ Mikey at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 9 p.m., Friday, $5, 324-2557. Kicking off the Independence Day weekend, local band Tall Dark & 90s groove-oriented jams are perfect for barbecues and beer drinking. Led by vocalist/comedi-

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

Angelo Moore of Fishbone plays a Brazilian Cuica drum.

an Jared “Smokin’ Phat J” Lawson, this band travels in large packs of party patrons. Be ready to sweat. Big Jugs, The Iron Outlaws and Jackass at Narducci’s, 622 E. 21st St., 10 p.m., Friday, 324-2961. Resembling a cross between “Dukes of Hazzard” and the Disney Bear Jamboree, Ventura’s Big Jugs are as blue as a pair of Daisy Dukes. Fans of early David Allen Coe should take note — this is “dirty country” at its funniest.

Mike Wiebe of The Riverboat Gamblers performs at the Vans Warped Tour show in Ventura. Whiskey Galore at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 9 p.m., Saturday, $5, 324-2557. American-bred and Celtic-fed, this band of rowdies has been going strong for 13 years. One of the coolest live music experiences in town, make your reservations early and be prepared to get your Irish jig on.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, July 22, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

The Expendables bring blend of reggae, metal, punk, ska It’s a great weekend for live music in Bakersfield Leading this weekend’s big show schedule is the Adema reunion show happening tomorrow at 6 p.m. at The Dome with six local openers — Automatic Redial, Andreas Fault, A Darkened Prophecy, Moxie Dreadful, Mother Puncher and Ridgecrest’s Barstool Saints. Checking out Adema fan forums online, the excitement surrounding their return is building. During their recent visit to Bakotopia Radio, the band performed a few numbers, both of which had rarely every been presented acoustically. To see video of those performances, visit the official Bakotopia YouTube channel at: youtube.com/bakotopia. In the mood for some reggae-rock in its stoniest form? Check out The Expendables at B Ryder’s, 7401 White Lane, Friday at 8 p.m. Not to be confused with the upcoming big-budget action flick, The Expendables are the pride of Santa Cruz. According to their press release they describe themselves as, “Reggae had sex with metal, punk got in the mix, and ska videotaped it all — then out pooped The Expendables.” “That describes exactly what our music is,” said Expendables’ guitarist Raul Bianchi via telephone from his home. Listing Bakersfield as one of the band’s early tour stops, Bianchi remembers those days of performing to small audiences. Putting in the miles alongside established bands like 311 and others, their work has paid off. “In the early days it definitely was a struggle with 15 to 20 people in the place,” said Raul Bianchi, the band’s guitarist. “It’s been getting better over the

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Interview with Circa Survive, appearing at Jerry’s Pizza on July 30. In-studio performance by Hello Friday Bakersfield comedy troupe, Pregnantville

past few years, so we’ve been excited.” That’s putting things lightly. Their latest release, “Prove It,” was produced by punk legends El Hefe of NOFX along with Paul Leary of Butthole Surfers, who also produced Sublime’s final CD. Still miffed by the web search fiasco caused by the movie starring Bruce Willis and Sylvester Stallone, Bianchi says the band did try to get a piece of the action. “We’ve had the name for a while, but we couldn’t sue them since they’re movies and we’re music. The only way there could be a lawsuit would be if we dressed up as characters from the movie,” he said. So, which “Expendables” movie character would Bianchi dress as if given the chance? “I’m half-Italian, so I guess I’d have to go with Stallone.” Opening the show will be kid punks, Emily’s Army. Tickets for the all ages show are $20 and available at B Ryder’s or online at timgardeapresents.com. Lately, I’ve been giving local artist Jorge Guillen a hard time over his paint work on the signal box in front of the Padre Hotel on 18th and H streets downtown. As a last ditch effort to hopefully see it finish, I’m going to ask our readers to assist Jorge with

COURTESY OF THE EXPENDABLES

The Expendables

a little “artervention.” I call it the “Hurry up, Jorge” campaign. Here’s how you can help: If you spot the artist — long hair, shorts, with a white boombox — near the aforementioned signal box, take a moment to stop and politely yell out, “Hurry up, Jorge.” Do it for the Padre, which already has to deal with those pesky “Shame On …” banner holders. Even better, do it for Jorge.

Matt’s picks Velorio, Son Locuaz, Rolling Radio, Vital at Fishlips, 1517 Chester Ave., 9 p.m. Friday, $10, 324-2557. Bako’s Velorio continue to support all things roc en español with a spicy show featuring local and out-of-town flavors. Son Locuaz from L.A. is one of the better indie bands on the Latin alternative scene. The

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

valley rockeros of Vital have a well-polished sound in the vein of Mexico’s Mana. And just like Velorio, they’re bilingual and badass. 1916 CD Release Party at Fishlips, 1517 Chester Ave., 9 p.m. Saturday, $10, 3242557. Bakersfield has 1916 to thank for popularizing local Celtic rock these past couple of years. Like their musical brethren Whisky Galore, their shows are always a hoot. If you think you can party with the best of them, take a swing sat at the band’s condom-filled piñata. Pregnantville Comedy presents: “History” at The Empty Space, 706 Oak St., 11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, $5, 327-7529. Back with a new set of material, the brave funnymen of Pregnantville aim to tickle your funny parts. Call it a comedy bargain — for only $5, you get not one but six comedians and lots of cajones.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, July 29, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

‘Crazy Heart’ singer to play Also check out new pin-up calendar at B Ryder’s

’m a big fan of the movie “Crazy Heart,” starring Jeff Bridges, so I was even more pumped to find out that Ryan Bingham and The Dead Horses are coming to town on Sept. 12. Promoter Tim Gardea, who’s had Bingham on his wish list since finding out he dropped off the Country Throwdown Tour, scored the booking as soon as he became available. Part of the new breed of “outlaw country” artists, Bingham co-wrote the Oscar-winning tune “The Weary Kind” featured in the movie. He also had a few brief scenes in the film as the back-up band for Bridges’ character, Bad Blake. During the movie, Bingham can be seen singing and saving Bad Blake’s disastrous bowling alley concert. Bingham also has some local roots, having spent his early years in Bakersfield before moving to New Mexico. The band’s long-awaited new CD “Junky Star” is scheduled for release on Sept. 7. Tickets for the Sept. 12 show go on sale online at 10 a.m. Saturday at tgptix.com. Tickets will also be available at B Ryder’s and other outlets beginning Aug. 7. More info at timgardeapresents.com.

Pin-up calendar If you’re looking to spruce up the wall of your garage or office, head over to B Ryder’s on Saturday for the debut of Dollface Photography’s “2010-2011 Pin-Up Calendar.” Packed with a bevy of local beauties, Dollface Photography owner Jamie Meyer is pleased with the finished product and thinks you will be too. “It looks really good and all the girls look amazing,” she said of the 18-month calendar. “Each month has lots of bright colors and themes. All of the models are very photogenic and happy with how the shots came

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Interview with Los Lonely Boys, appearing at the Fox on Wednesday. In-studio performance by Latin rockers Vital. Preview of Hed PE and Big B concert at B Ryder’s on Aug. 6.

out.” The calendar is a first-time project of this nature for Meyer, who also shoots events and models. Recalling the project’s planning stages, what sounded like fun became a challenge she was committed to seeing through to completion. “Scheduling all the girls and scenes was tough. Every month the girls have a different-themed background, and holidays needed to be matched up.” Inspired by classic pin-up photos of the ’40s, Meyer knew who would make perfect models — local girl groups who’ve adopted the retro pin-up fashion in everyday life. “We have members of The Pink Ladies, some BRCs, a few local roller derby girls and more. Nowadays everything is about pinups, tattoos and hot rods in Bakersfield. I just decided to get together a lot of hot girls who have the look.” Along for the ride, hairstylist Clair Perez assisted by providing all the dolled-up do’s for each model. Planning her schedule around her day gig at Bakersfield’s Curl Up & Dye salon, this was also Perez’s first calendar. Shooting at various locations, including the Majestic Fox Theater and Rosemary’s Family Creamery, Perez remembers a few sketchy moments. “The shoot at Union cemetery was hot and the ants kept biting us. Then helping one of the models up on the gravestone in her outfit wasn’t easy,” she laughed. “I’ve never done a calendar before, but I got be really creative and I’d do it again.” Meyer points out that while pin-up calendars have a reputation for being geared toward more adult eyes, there’s no need to

PHOTO COURTESY OF RYAN BINGHAM

Ryan Bingham co-wrote the Oscar-winning tune “The Weary Kind” featured in the movie “Crazy Heart.”

hide hers from the kids. “It’s very clean and classy, and there’s nothing inappropriate,” she said. “You can put it up at your home, garage or anywhere.” Saturday’s event at B Ryder’s begins at 8 p.m. with live music by The JBombs. Each calendar costs $20 and you can even have your favorite model sign it to your heart’s content. Only 300 calendars were printed, so get ’em while you can. To purchase through Dollface Photography, call 394-0176.

Matt’s picks Circa Survive at Jerry’s Pizza, 1817 Chester Ave., 7 p.m. Friday, $20, 633-1000. Philly’s post-hardcore heroes are heading back to the Jerry’s basement to feel, smell, and sweat out the glory of their early career. Weezer did it years ago, as did bands like Buckcherry and others. Maybe it’s owner Jerry Baranowksi’s mojo that lures them back to the pit, we’ll never know? By the

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

time you read this, tickets may be sold-out … Uh-oh. Lowrider Nationals at Kern County Fairgrounds, 1142 S. P St., 11 a.m., Sunday, $5 to $25, 323-352-8384. Thirteen years of bringing the biggest collection of cars and crossover music acts to Bakersfield, the annual Lowrider Nationals keeps riding along. In addition to all the hot custom cars, hip-hop fans can check out the legendary rapper DJ Quik, Bako regulars Baby Bash, Junebug Slim, Brown Boy, and more. Make sure you have at least an 8G memory card in your camera for the “Hot Girl Contest” — you’ll know why on Sunday. Car Wash Fundraiser with The Pink Ladies, Iron Outlaws Country Club and Midnight Sinners, at B Ryder’s Bar, 7401 White Lane, 11 a.m. Sunday, $5, 397-7304. Get your car cleaned with The Pink Ladies and help support the Bakersfield Jamison Center. While rinsing your ride, you can kick back and check out the suburban hillbilly sounds of Country Club, who from what I hear have a superb female singer-songwriter in the group.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 5, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Big names headline at B Ryder’s Strange Noize Tour drops in Friday

ust looking at the lineup for Friday’s Strange Noize Tour stop at B Ryder’s makes me dizzy. Headlining the big outdoorindoor music fest is Huntington Beach rap rock vets, Hed PE. Blending elements of metal, hiphop and reggae, these headliners are following some pretty big openers with Kottonmouth Kings’ Johnny Richter, Kutt Calhoun, rapper Big B and Blestenation. All artists are members of the Southern Californian-based Subnoize Records and SRH Clothing family. Formed in 1991 by Kottomouth Kings manager Kevin Zinger, SRH has become the official clothier for not only bands on the Subnoize label, but also their loyal fanbase. Specializing in male and female fashions and accessories with tattoo-inspired artwork, the style is especially popular among the extreme-sport scene. “We just started out as a small company with the Kottonmouth Kings at the forefront of the whole thing,” said rapper Bryan “Big B” Mahoney via telephone. “It just became this movement of music, skate, moto-cross, and everything mixed in with this underground lifestyle.” The name SRH, an acronym standing for everything from “Support Radical Habits,” to “Stoners Reeking Habit” depending on who you ask in the scene, is often dismissed as just another fratboy fashion trend. But for Mahoney, the compa-

PHOTO COURTESY OF BIG B

Rapper Big B will perform at B Ryder's on Friday.

ny prides itself in the spirit of other music-related fashion companies — namely Def Jam’s Records hugely successful Phat Farm brand, and others. “It’s getting like that all across the U.S., and really the world. Subnoize and SRH put something together that just became this movement, more than just a couple brands out there. We have a hand in everything from fashion — all the way down to the music. I think people realized that it’s not just about going to the store and buying a T-shirt.” The Friday all-ages event begins as 3 p.m. at B Ryder’s with a bikini contest, free giveaways including tickets to the even-bigger SRH Fest happening the following day in San Bernardino, and plenty of “bros.” Tickets are $20 and available at the venue. For more info visit: timgardeapresents.com.

Surviving Circa Survive show Last Friday’s Circa Survive concert at Jerry’s was a truly sweaty

affair. Believe it or not, the venue managed to safely accommodate as many local fans as it could hold. Seen trying to catch a glimpse of the actions were members of The Hollow and photographer Jeremy Gonzalez, who was kind enough to snap up a load of photos that really make you feel like you were there. Preferring to be in the heat of the action instead of behind the barricades, Gonzalez’s plan to capture the moment isn’t for the weak. “I try to get a good spot, then wrap my camera strap around me as tight as possible, keep my arm as high as I can, balancing myself. I wait until the crowd gets really pumped up to get the shots. It’s cool to be right in the middle of it all, getting pushed around and feeling it all, even the pain. The energy for this show was amazing.” To see Gonzalez’s full photo report from deep in the Jerry’s Pizza basement, visit the bakotopia.com homepage.

Cutting to The Core You should also check out new local hip-hop Internet radio site: thecorelive.com. The site features live video and music streaming presented by some resident DJs and personalities. I recently tuned in to “The Inconvenient Truth,” the site’s morning talk and music show hosted by T.D. and CUTM Dave. I’m still not sure what’s going on, but I did get to watch CUTM Dave enjoy a Corona camera at 9 a.m.

Matt’s picks Nappy Roots with The Dirty Politicians and DJ Mikey at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 9 p.m., Thursday, $12, 324-2557. Hailing from Bowling Green, Ky., The Nappy Roots 2002 debut, "Watermelon, Chicken & Gritz,” had one of the best jams of the year with “Po’ Folks.” After a fol-

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JEREMY GONZALEZ

Circa Survive vocalist Anthony Green greets the audience at Jerry's Pizza last week.

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Preview of The Ataris show, Aug. 14 at B Ryder’s Comedy by Morgan Roy of The Future Has-Beens live at Fishlips, Aug. 12 Bakersfield MMA fighter Brian Cobb

low-up release, they all but disappeared into the shadows of the “dirty dirty” South. Now, the group is back with a new CD, “The Pursuit of Nappyness,” and ready to rejuvenate the state of the genre. Opening the show is Bako’s DJ Mikey and The Dirty Politicians, who every time I’ve seen live add another member or two, or three. The Hollow with Switchboard of Souls at The Gate, 2010 O St.,

7 p.m. Friday, $7, 324-2557. Electro-rockers The Hollow have one of the most polishedsounding local demos in circulation. Fronted by lead vocalist known simply as “Tink” who resembles a sexy version of Tinkerbell, their song “The Key” made its debut on Bakotopia Radio last week to rave reviews. The group’s other members — “The Jerm” and “JR” — sport some crazy masks, but don’t expect any Slipknot foolery. You’ll be hearing more about this band soon. KC Rollergirls Benefit Luau at The Dome, 2201 V St., noon to 10 p.m. Saturday, $10, 327-0190. Local tough chicks on skates show off their tender sides to help out Centennial High junior Taryne Hallford, who suffers from a rare disease known as dysautonomia. There will an outdoor car show and concert with local bands all afternoon, then things will get loud inside into the evening. Donations will be accepted and all funds will go toward helping Taryne’s medical costs.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 19, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Cool sounds beat the heat Hit the road for shows this weekend

think we can all agree that sometimes you just gotta get away. Pack up your mates, and head south to celebrate the tailend of a hot summer with some cool shows this weekend. Boston ska-rock legends The Mighty Mighty Bosstones perform tonight at the Hollywood House of Blues, 8430 W. Sunset Boulevard at 8 p.m. Touring nonstop since 1983, the band went from indie to top-40 radio with their 1997 song “The Impression That I Get.” Since going on hiatus in 2005, lead vocalist Dicky Barrett has been staying busy as show announcer for ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Show.” Back for a short tour and ska-riffic new CD, “Pin Points and Gin Joints,” Barrett describes his new work ethic as a maturing music idol, tagged with a personal invite. “It’s all very light juggling. I do the ‘Kimmel Show’ about an hour of my day. The Bosstones used to tour 300 shows a year and now as we enter our 40s, we’ve slowed down and lightened that load. I don’t know, I guess when it comes to my chosen profession, which is entertaining, I’m a little lackadaisical and an underachiever. “Come to the show, I can’t imagine there’s anything better going on in Bakersfield.” Tickets for tonight’s all-ages show are $25. For more info, visit: houseofblues.com.

Rockin’ The Bells Rap music’s heaviest hitters are about to get rocked at this Saturday’s Rock The Bells music

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: In-studio performance by Bakersfield’s Fatt Katt and Therese Muller Local arts and music discussion In-studio performance by local band, That That

festival at San Bernardino’s NOS Center beginning at noon. The annual cavalcade of all things hiphop and beyond features sets by Snoop Dogg, Wu-Tang Clan and others. Also on the bill is Street Sweeper Social Club, featuring Rage Against The Machine guitarist Tom Morello and rapper Boots Riley of The Coup. During a recent phone interview, Morello recalled one of Rage’s earliest tours that included a show in Bakersfield. Opening for controversial rap group Public Enemy at CSUB’s outdoor amphitheater in 1992, it was one of many riddled with preshow hysteria that year. “That whole West Coast tour, the local authorities were so wound up saying, ‘Public Enemy was going to be busing in Crips (gang members) for the show …’ The audience was like 97 percent white, college sophomores. There were more police dogs than there were people at the show. It was really pretty crazy and we had a lot of laughs about that show.” While fans await new music from Rage, Morello is promoting Street Sweeper’s new “Ghetto Blaster EP,” a collection of originals and reworked covers by M.I.A. and LL Cool J. “The one thing that Street Sweeper has is a real sense of humor. Boots is a great lyricist.

There’s serious content to what the band is doing, but it’s also funny as hell and I think it reflects the good time we have both onstage and off.” Tickets for the all-day event range from $84 to $419. For info visit: rockthebells.net.

Silver Lake’s Sunset Junction anniversary The Silver Lake area of Los Angeles is home to some of the hippest locales in California, including Club Spaceland and Silversun Liquors where area hitmakers Silversun Pickups stole their name. But this weekend all shoegazing will be put aside to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Sunset Junction, beginning at 11 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Both a street fair and music festival, this year’s lineup is one of the more eclectic in years. Headliners range from punk vets (Bad Brains, Fishbone) to electro-noisemakers (Shiny Toy Guns, Hyphy Crunk) old school rappers (Big Daddy Kane) as well as jazz and local bands on five stages. While many blossoming music festivals get overrun with corporate sponsorships and lame acts, Sunset Junction has managed to retain its indie spirit showcasing loads of undiscovered talent. Texas alt-rock trio Girl In A Coma, who perform on the festival’s “Bates Stage” at 5 p.m. Sunday, not only have bragging rights for working with the legendary Joan Jett, but also being signed to her label. After last year’s brilliant “Trio B.C.,” out on Jett’s Blackheart Records, sisters Nina (guitar and vocals) and Phanie Diaz (drums) and bassist Jenn Alva are one of the weekend’s highlights. Releasing three back-to-back cover EPs, “Adventures In Coverland Vol. 1 3,” earlier this year, Alva admits it was a nice break, plus a way to show their roots.

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

PHOTO COURTESY OF FRED GREISSING

The Mighty Mighty Bosstones, Dicky Barrett, center, will perform at House of Blues in Hollywood tonight.

we’ve never played in the Silverlake area.” Tickets for the 2010 Sunset Junction are $15 advance and $20 at the gate. For more info, visit: sunsetjunction.org.

Matt’s picks

PHOTO COURTESY OF RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE

Guitarist Tom Morello of Rage Against The Machine and Street Sweeper Social Club will perform Saturday in San Bernardino.

“We’re starting to work on the third album, but Blackheart had mentioned if we wanted to do a cover album for fun. So it’s just one of those things you don’t turn down. We were excited. We love to show what makes us who we are. It’s a mix of everything from The Beatles, Selena, Joy Division. Maybe some bands our young fans don’t know.” Named after a song by another of their musical influences, The Smiths, this will be a rare opportunity to catch Girl In A Coma live. “We’re very excited,” added Alva. “We haven’t been in L.A. this year, so it’s finally happening and

The Rocky Horror Picture Show at The Empty Space, 706 Oak St., 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, $10, 327-PLAY. I remember seeing Rocky Horror at the old Nile Theater back in high school with some friends. Not knowing we were about to set ourselves up for a massive fail, we brought bologna instead of franks. To spare you any newbie embarrassment, the good people at The Empty Space will be selling prop bags filled with the right ingredients for an affordable $3. Bless their hearts. Velorio and Versa at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 9 p.m. Saturday, $5, 324-2557. Forget Zumba, try Velorio! Their hot cumbia-cardio show never fails to result in a rare sight — couples dancing. You don’t have to be versed in Latin dancing either, just grab your gal or guy and shake it up. Openers’ Versa, formerly Out of Frame, are a band to keep up with during this local new music drought.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, August 26, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Welcome back, Wichitas Influential local band playing again

Bakotopia Radio

efore “Bakobilly” became all the rage, The Wichitas were the original local roots country rockers through the ’90s. After an extended hiatus and a few reunions, they’re back again, this time opening for Jack Ingram at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace this Sunday at 7 p.m., and Ryan Bingham at B Ryder’s on Sept. 12 at 8 p.m. During the ’80s, new wave, punk, and alternative country were the sounds of the underground. Bands like L.A.’s The Blasters, Lone Justice along with Texas’ Rank and File and Nashville’s Jason and The Scorchers combined country twang with punk distortion in city dive bars. Some might say the Bakersfield Sound directly inspired its “cowpunk” style. But for Wichitas lead vocalist and guitarist Olen Taylor, who formed The Wichitas in ’92, inspiration came across the water in the form of British rock ’n’ rollers Rockpile. Led by guitarist Dave Mason and bassist Nick Lowe, their “pub-rock” style attracted Taylor. “Bands like Rockpile taught us we could do this,” he said. “And Dave Mason should be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.” Not fond of media hype, Taylor certainly has earned the right to talk up his band’s resume. Over the course of their nearly 20-year existence, they’ve scored some prime gig slots opening for Johnny

9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: In-studio performance by Live lead vocalist Ed Kowalczyk Interview with Hectic Films’ Rickey Bird Interview with comedian Ralphie May, appearing Sept. 23 at the Fox.

Cash, Willie Nelson, Los Lobos, plus a coveted spot on the ’95 Buck Owens/Merle Haggard concert at the Kern County Fairgrounds. “The promoters seemed to like us. I remember some of the local scene reaction when we used to be on these shows would be, ‘Why these guys?’ Listen, we may be knuckleheads, but we’re not that bad.” The current Wichitas lineup also features Bruce Jones, drums; Chris Goodsell (aka Purdy Spackle), bass; Robert Tidwell, guitar; and Christopher O’Brien — who’s known The Wichitas since performing with local power-pop band Brian Jones Was Murdered back in the day. “Our bands were sort of mutual fans. I’ve worked with Bruce since ’93, and we knew each other fairly well. When The Wichitas called me up, I jumped at the chance,” O’Brien said. One member who won’t be joining them for the shows is original guitarist Mark Lipco. Comparative to an extended family, Lipco’s absence doesn’t mean he’s out of the band. “This has always been just a gathering of friends. We’ve gone through a few members, but we’ve always wanted to be in this band, and Mark is still with us.” Taylor explains that while there

are no solid plans to perform regularly, the band is open to do more should a good opportunity present itself. “We’ll see what happens. It’s not about the money, it’s just playing on our terms.”

Pac West Sound at Sunset Junction During my visit to the 30th anniversary Sunset Junction music and arts festival in Silver Lake this past weekend, it was great to see Bakersfield sound company Pac West in control. Five stages were all run by familiar local faces, including company sound engineer Erik Madera, who briefly described the massive undertaking. “The entire warehouse is empty,” he said before scurrying off to check on some cabling. And it was all put to good use. As I caught sets from hip-hop legend Big Daddy Kane, indie bands Saint Motel, Girl In A Coma, plus Fishbone and a newly energized Bad Brains, who whipped up the biggest mosh pit I’ve seen in a few years, the Pac West bunch kept things crystal clear. Now, if only our DBA could figure out a way to throw a similar festival, life would be that much better in Bako. Check out photos from my Sunset Junction experience at: bakotopia.com.

Matt’s picks “Little Shop of Horrors” at Caffeine Supreme, 20th and F, 8 p.m., Friday, Free, 873-4712. Not the 1986 musical version, this is the original 1960 Roger Corman black-and-white comedy with Jack Nicholson. Shot in two days using leftover movie sets, its original running title was “The Passionate People Eater.” I’ve checked out the cool outdoor screen the Hectic guys built for these free screenings and the picture is nice. Just be careful not to

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WICHITAS

The Wichitas in 1995.

MATT MUNOZ / THE CALIFORNIAN

Solrak of The B-Side Players performs at Sunset Junction in Silver Lake on Aug. 21.

wreck your car while you’re driving by to catch a glimpse like I almost did last time. Pull over and watch. Operation Comedy at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 8 p.m. Saturday, $20, 324-2557. Operation Repo’s Matt Burch and Froy Tercero headline this show, along with comedians Jim Trino, Fat James, Rick Shapiro and Big Mike. I was a huge fan of the Operation Repo TV show until I found out it was fake. Oops, did I spoil the surprise? Don’t forget to ask Matt and Froy how it is co-starring with the Sea Witch from Disney’s “The Little Mermaid.” They’ll get it.

MATT MUNOZ / THE CALIFORNIAN

Erik Madera and Danny Almeyda of Bakersfield’s Pac West Sound at Sunset Junction in Silver Lake. Funky Fight Night 3 at B Ryder’s, 7401 White Lane, 6 p.m. Saturday, $10, 397-7304. Current IBF boxing champ James Toney makes his MMA debut against Randy Couture in what has become a monthly gathering of Bakersfield’s UFC fans at B Ryder’s. The sport has come a long way from the original “no rules” approach of the early bouts. Now at UFC 118, that’s a lot of broken noses lined with good sportsmanship. After the fight, stick around for the “funky” portion with music by Mento Buru and DJ Mikey. No protective gear required.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, September 2, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Go underground with Fischel was a crazy night,” said Gardea. “That’s all I can remember and am going to say.” Going on to become a multiplatinum-selling rock act a year later, rumor has it the band vowed to never play Bakersfield again. If there is any truth to the story, maybe fans should think about making “Welcome Back Deftones” signs, or maybe deliver a box of Dewar’s chews to the band’s tour bus? I’m just sayin’. Tickets for the Oct. 13, all-ages show are available now for $32. For a list of outlets, visit: timgardeapresents.com.

Soulful performer set for Fishlips

irst time I met Long Beach underground music legend Josh Fischel was at the Bakersfield Reggae Fest back in 2000. A last-minute addition to an already exhausting day, he showed up late and was forced to set up on the grass with his band, Bargain Music. Not guaranteed any performance time, the band plugged in and started to perform anyway with a back-up horn section that included me on sax and local trombonist Joe Vazquez. Dancing up a nice-size crowd, we managed to make it through about three songs before the power was cut. Fast forward to a few months later, a bootleg recording of that impromptu performance ended up on the band’s 2001 CD, “Cook the Beans,” as “Roastfish Medley.” Locals later informed me that Fischel’s cult-like following was an extension of fellow Long Beach music brethren, Sublime. Tapped as director for three of the band’s music videos, “Date Rape,” “Doin’ Time” and “Wrong Way,” Fischel has made a name for himself behind the camera and as a music producer. Switching from guitar, keys, and even melodica, his latest musical project, The Fiction, picks up where Bargain Music left off. Still writing and recording soulful reggae, ska, and rock originals, fans should shout for his cover of Prince’s “The Beautiful Ones,” when he appears at Fishlips at 9 p.m. Friday. Tickets are $10 and opening the show will be Bako’s own Dub Seeds.

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: In-studio performance by Bakersfield’s The Bird Channel. Preview of Village Fest, happening Sept. 11 at the Kern County Museum. Interview with singer Ryan Bingham, who will be at B Ryder’s Sept. 12.

Matt’s picks PHOTO COURTESY OF DEFTONES

Sacramento’s Deftones will appear at Stramler Park on Oct. 13.

PHOTO COURTESY OF IRIEAZ

Josh Fischel and his band, The Fiction, perform live at Fishlips Friday night.

Rocktoberfest is coming Question: What do you get when you cross Sacramento rock quintet Deftones with a German drinking festival? Answer: Bakersfield Rocktoberfest happening Oct. 13 at Stramler Park. Promoter Tim Gardea never has a shortage of “original” concert plans on offering adult concertgoers a way

to avoid pre-show boredom. Beginning at 4 p.m. the day of the show, early arrivals will be able to enjoy a mini-Oktoberfest at Metro Park, a small area next to the main Stramler Park grounds. According to Gardea, there will be a beer garden for those 21 and over, along with “Oktoberfest”-type food vendors. “We’re going to trick it out with some Oktoberfest maidens dressed up greeting people,” said Gardea. “It will be nice to be able to walk right in after the main gates open feeling pretty good.” Believe it or not, it’s been nearly 16 years since Deftones have performed in Bakersfield. According to one often retold story, the band’s last local performance at the old John Bryan’s Tavern on California Avenue (now Flame & Skewers) ended badly. Gardea, who at the time was working as a bartender at John Bryan’s, didn’t book the show but recalls some of the incident that ended in a broken arm for Deftone’s drummer Abe Cunningham. “That was a long time ago and it

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

MATT MUNOZ / THE CALIFORNIAN

Ed Kowalczyk, former Live lead vocalist, stopped by KRAB Radio last week.

Kowalczyk’s Live surprise One of the coolest things about hosting Bakotopia Radio every Sunday on KRAB is having a surprise guest. While the show does focus on local and unsigned acts from the Bakersfield and national scene, this past week we were visited by former Live lead vocalist and Ojai resident Ed Kowalczyk. Arriving with just an acoustic guitar, he performed two incredible renditions of his band’s radio hits “I Alone” and “Lightning Crashes.” Check out video from the show at our official YouTube channel: Youtube.com/bakotopia. Kowalczyk’s new solo CD, “Alive,” is instores now.

The Hollow at Rockstarz, 7737 Meany Ave., 9 tonight, 589-6749. It’s always a shame when promising bands with so much talent dissolve early, but everyone loves a comeback. After a disastrous show earlier this month that led to lead vocalist Valerie “Tink” Porter to announce she was “leaving the band” via Facebook, Bako electrorockers The Hollow are back. Give them a listen at: myspace.com/hollow13. Voodoo Glow Skulls and more at The Dome, 2201 V St., 7 p.m. Friday, $10, 327-0190. A Voodoo Glow Skulls show is always worth revisiting. Making a few slots on this summer’s Warped Tour, the brothers Casillas — Frank, Eddie and Jorge — keep their ska/punk sound fast and loud. Opening the show is local band Kaptain Krunch and The Cereal Killers, who just released a fun EP of original tunes in the vein of their Voodoo heroes. The Afterparty at B Ryder’s, 7401 White Lane, 9 p.m. Saturday, $5, 397-7304. Re-formed and ready to rock, Afterparty members Zakk Magnum, Rikki Styles, Nikki Faith and Troy Thunderz offer up a hilarious musical tribute to ’80s hair metal. Plucked directly from the era that gave us Poison, Cinderella and Motley Crue, they’ve found a niche among local rockers looking for “nothin’ but a good time!”

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, September 9, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Eli Young & the Restless Oscar for his song “The Weary Kind” from the movie “Crazy Heart,” singer/songwriter Ryan Bingham is finally coming home. His killer new CD “Junky Star” is out now with more future hits. During a recent interview, I asked Ryan what we can expect from his show. His first response was, “Oh, we like it a little rowdy.” Opening the show will be local alt-country legends, The Wichitas.

Band antsy to lay something new on us

he Eli Young Band is an anxious bunch. Appearing tonight at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, the Denton, Texas, quartet of Mike Eli, vocals; James Young, guitar; Chris Thompson, drums; and Jon Jones, bass, have been touring nonstop since the release of 2008’s “Jet Black & Blue.” Currently in the middle of switching record labels, the band is eager to give Bakersfield country fans just what they crave: new music. “We’ve been waiting to put this new record out,” said bassist Jones of their as-yet-untitled new CD via telephone from Pittsburgh aboard the band’s tour bus. “We just got the mixes, and can’t wait to introduce ourselves to new fans.” Originally a duo featuring members Mike Eli and James Young in 2000, they soon grew to a four-piece during their college days at North Texas University, where they all attended. Performing on the weekends in town, they kept the original surname combination and stayed busy through graduation as The Eli Young Band. “It took me the longest to graduate with my psychology degree,” Jones admitted. “Six years, but once the last person graduated, we knew music was the way for us to go. Mike has a business degree and, during those early years, it really helped us out.” Releasing their first CD themselves post graduation, they were signed to independent label Carnival in 2002, before being picked up

PHOTO COURTESY OF RON KEITH

Southern Culture On The Skids will appear at Fishlips on Sunday. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ELI YOUNG BAND

The Eli Young Band, from left: James Young, Jon Jones, Mike Eli and Chris Thompson.

by Universal Records. Dropping their first single, “When It Rains,” in 2007, their full-length major label debut was being primed for success. Upon its release the following year, it produced two more charting singles, including “Radio Waves” and “Guinevere,” a song that helped establish the band’s reputation as rising stars. “We’ve been working non-stop, and we really don’t have a formula to base that on,” said Jones. “But the fans seem to like what we’re doing. That’s good enough for us.” Winding up the last leg of their tour before heading into another phase of band business, Jones also says they’ve already received a vote of confidence from listeners on the road.

The Eli Young Band When: 7 p.m. today Where: Buck Owens' Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. Admission: $15 Information: 328-7560

“The minute you play a new song in concert, a video comes out online and the next day people know the lyrics. I think it’s great.” It’s that type of interaction that Jones also believes will keep audiences from losing interest, until the ink on their upcoming contract dries. “In a lot of ways those videos

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

help us get immediate feedback, before we decide on a final recording. It’s one of those things that can go terribly wrong or right. There’s an excitement in it.”

Matt’s picks Village Fest at Kern County Museum, 3805 Chester Ave., 6 p.m. Saturday, $63, 323-2739. The biggest annual gathering of Bakersfield socialites, it’s also quite the rager. During its original years atop of the Bank of America parking structure, the entire structure used to shake. If you miss this year’s party you have only yourself to blame. Please make sure you have a sober driver before you head into downtown where the festivities continue at Fishlips. Ryan Bingham and The Wichitas at B Ryder’s, 7401 White Lane, 8 p.m. Sunday, $20, 397-7304. I can’t recommend this show enough. After winning a 2010

Southern Culture On The Skids at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 8 p.m., Sunday, $12, 324-2557 Straight from Chapel Hill, N.C., this hillbilly trio of rockabilly pranksters write songs about dancing, sex, and fried chicken. Checking out the band’s tour rider, they request a bucket of KFC and bananas for use onstage. Don’t ask me why, just get ready to have a Bakersfield-style hoedown with every Bakobilly scene crasher in town.

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: In-studio performance by Bakersfield's Lotus Veil Local music promoter Cody Anderson from The Dome A preview of Pato Banton show at Fishlips Sept. 16

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, September 16, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Dad’s music passion guided me Father honored with naming of park

t’s not every day a park is named after your father. But then, not every father was like Arturo Munoz. He had more titles than I can remember in his many years of public service in McFarland: city councilman, school board member, police commissioner, coach — but to me he was Dad. And so on the occasion of the dedication of the park Saturday — an honor that makes my family so proud (but probably would have embarrassed my modest father) — I find myself thinking about yet another passion Dad pursued and passed on to me, his youngest son: music. From his collection of romantic Latin trio records from Mexico to the Duke Ellington and Willie Bobo classics, Dad played music to fit the moment. If friends were over, it might switch from mariachi with Javier Solis, to big band with Glenn Miller, a little Sinatra, or El Chicano. He had eclectic musical tastes, and it influenced me big time. He had the gift of sharing a story directly related to a song while it was playing. If a tune by jazz clarinetist Benny Goodman came on, he would tell me about taking my mother to see him perform live at the Hollywood Palladium for their honeymoon. Then there’s the story about zoot suit-wearing pachucos at local dances who loved the song, “Rum & CocaCola,” like it was an alarm to start trouble. Being the youngest of seven children, I could

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth

This Sunday • In-studio performance by Crash Kings • Interview with comedian Ralphie May, appearing Sept. 23 at the Fox

sit and listen to him talk for hours. I’d ask him about traveling to the U.S. alone as a young man from Mexico, working to find his American dream as a new citizen. He began in Texas, and moved on to Chicago, working in various agricultural labor camps, then made ends meet as a cook for the U.S. War Administration. I admired his bravery and work ethic. Like generations of other locals, my father settled in the Central Valley still holding onto the dream. He missed his family back home in Mexico, especially his mother, Carolina. But this was his new home and he was determined to stay. Around the time of his arrival in Delano in 1946, he joined area Latin band Son Guajiro, as a vocalist. Resembling members of the Desi Arnaz’ “I Love Lucy” orchestra with flashy “mambo king” style outfits, he described the group as quite popular. With shirts like that, how could they not be? Only one photo from his days as a musician survived over the years, and it’s one of my most cherished items. Just looking at the image, you can hear the tropical sounds of the bongos, claves, guiro and maracas keeping time with the guitarist. Standing behind is the horn section, blending together sweet melodies for the neighborhood. Yes, there’s a

PHOTO COURTESY OF MATT MUNOZ

Son Guajiro performs in Delano in 1946. Arturo Munoz is seated second from right.

story attached to the music-making photo too. One evening my father was asked to sing the birthday song “Las Mananitas,” for a band member’s friend — without knowing she would be his future wife, my mother, Socorro. My parents married after a year of dating and started a family in McFarland in 1946. Planting their roots firmly on their block and building a new home for all the children on the way, there was no place they’d rather be together. From that point on, my father’s commitment to family and community involvement was off and running. Landing a job at the Perelli-Minetti winery in Delano, he also worked as a foreman and was a key member of the local Wine & Allied workers union,

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

Arturo J. Munoz Memorial Park dedication When: 2 p.m. Saturday Where: Ebell and Woodruff streets, McFarland

helping to negotiate contracts with the UFW and Cesar Chavez. He retired after 40 years. Even with a full house and work schedule, he made time to run for public office, becoming the first Hispanic city councilman and police commissioner for the city of McFarland in 1974. Later, he was a McFarland Unified School District board member, secretary and treasurer for the Municipal Water Company, member of the Lions Club, St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, Kern Cemetery District Board, among others. He also loved athletics, and was an active youth sports coach for McFarland

Parks & Recreation. I remember waiting for my father to get home, still in his work uniform, planning baseball practice. “Hello, Mr. Munoz,” my teammates and friends would always greet him respectfully. There simply isn’t enough space for me to condense my father’s amazing life into one column. He passed away in November 2008, and is missed every day. Fortunately, he left us a legacy of love and education, teaching us that there’s a big world out there and life is what you make of it. When the city of McFarland notified my mother they would be naming a new memorial park in Dad’s honor earlier this year, it brought my family a lot of joy. My father was a simple man who didn’t look for the spotlight. He truly loved to serve, and we’re honored that his contributions to the community are being recognized. Congratulations, Dad!

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, September 23, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Soulajar raises $5,000 in one night! Band’s crowdfunding campaign a success

hey pulled it off! As mentioned last month in The Lowdown, local band Soulajar launched a campaign to help get its new CD project funded through Kickstarter.com in a program called “crowdfunding.” This is the way it works: Bands that sign up must first pitch a project to the website for screening. If approved, the band can then set up an artist “pledge page” where fans and supporters can donate money, in return for production credits or a nifty gift. Setting a 45-day deadline in which to raise $10,000, Soulajar promoted the cause incessantly. When I first heard of their plan, I’ll admit I had no idea this thing could work. Soulajar drummer Brian Boozer shared a little of how it all went down. “We did the initial e-blast announcement with the video, and everybody talked about it,” he said. “Thirty days in, it started getting kind of stale with not much interest. People would say they wanted to donate, but we had to remind about the deadline.” Periodically checking the pledge page for updates, I noticed that by 6 p.m. Sunday, they’d reached a little more than $5,000. But by the Monday morning deadline, they had surpassed their goal with more than $10,100 to their name. While Boozer can’t reveal the identity behind the noticeably high single $2,500 donation giving them a final push, the donor will be listed on the band’s

PHOTO COURTESY OF OZOMATLI

Grammy Award-winner Ozomatli will be at Fishlips on Oct. 14.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HOLLY CARLYLE

Soulajar, from left: Greg Bettis, Brian Boozer, Jim Ranger and Ryan Fergon.

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Preview of Bakersfield Oktoberfest at Stramler Park Oct. 2 In-studio performance by The Hollow Preview of Luigi's 100th anniversary celebration on Oct. 3

CD jacket. “We actually had two pretty big backers throw down some pretty big pledges those last few hours, and I saw a lot of names I didn’t recognize on the final list. It was really cool to know they believed in the project.” The band hopes to finally have “Pipe Dream” complete and in the hands of fans sometime in early 2011. Until then, look out for

some upcoming local shows leading up to a big party. “We’ll probably play during October, but really our focus is to put together a smashing CD release show.” Congratulations, fellas! You made me a believer … for now.

Shows this season Autumn is officially here, and with that I bring show news … Currently on sale are tickets for worldbeat mish-mashers Ozomatli, appearing at Fishlips on Oct. 14. If you haven’t caught one of the band’s incredibly energetic live shows, you don’t want to miss out on this. I first met these guys in the mid-’90s when my band, Mento Buru, was on a double bill at L.A.’s Viper Room on Sunset Boulevard for Cinco de Mayo. We had no idea what to expect from Ozomatli until the band hit the stage and our jaws dropped. Marching in with a Brazilian-style drum and dance line that led us outside to Sunset and back, it was a nonstop party. A month later we invited them to

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

PHOTO COURTESY OF X

Legendary punk band X will perform at Buck Owens' Crystal Palace on Dec. 27.

perform at the Bakersfield Reggae Fest as a last-minute addition. They showed up crammed in one small van with horns, guitars, drums, turntables and all. Bakersfield ate it up, and they returned the following year a couple of days after being named “A Band To Watch” in the Los Angeles Times. By now, some of you might recall catching them on Santana’s Supernatural tour, with The Dave Matthews Band, Coachella, or maybe before the riot outside the 2000 Democratic National Convention in Los Angeles. It’s been 14 years, six albums and four Grammys since their last Bako appearance, so plan on a sweaty reunion. Advance tickets are $24 and can be purchased through Vallitix.com, or at Fishlips, 1517 18th St. For more info, call 324-2557. Also coming to town for a huge post-Christmas show is Southern California punk rock Americana legends X on Dec. 27 at Buck

Owens’ Crystal Palace. As excited as I am for the Ozo show, I’m even more pumped that X will be on the same stage that the mighty Buck performed on for years. Back with all original members — John Doe, Exene, Billy Zoom, and D.J. Bonebrake — what better way to say “adios” to 2010? It’s also the 30th anniversary of their album “Los Angeles,” produced by The Doors’ Ray Manzarek. Need more convincing? Ticket prices range from $24 to $18, and are also available through Vallitix.com or at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. But wait, there’s more! Bakersfield Oktoberfest returns on Oct. 2, along with Rocktoberfest featuring The Deftones on Oct. 13, both at Stramler Park. Keep up with all these shows and more at Bakotopia.com.

Matt’s Pick Three Chord Whore and Expose at Vinny’s, 2700 S. Union Ave., 9 p.m. Saturday. $5. 835-7444 Riot chick punkers Three Chord Whore are the only all-female band in Bako. They’re always a blast to see live, especially when lead vocalist Darcie Blake is in a funny mood, which is most of the time. Shantell Waldo is one energetic drummer, and you can’t mess with guitarist Heather Mercer, who is frighteningly good on their classic “Nerve Damage.” Opening rock act Expose is new to the scene, and not to be confused with the ’80s freestyle girl-group.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, September 30, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Outlaw heads back to town BY MATT MUNOZ Bakotopia.com editor mmunoz@bakersfield.com

he Halloween season is in gear, so let’s check out what treats await you in October. Country legend David Allen Coe is looking more like a member of the Addams Family lately, but the man still has “Itt.” Get it? One of more infamous “outlaw” country singer-songwriters of the ’70s and ’80s, his fans are true diehards. Among his more popular compositions is “Take This Job and Shove It,” a song that inspired a movie of the same name, and walkouts nationwide. That song also was a hit for the equally bizarre-looking Johnny Paycheck, who now resides in country music heaven. According to Coe’s personal rap sheet, his life is a tale of childhood reform schools and jail, starting at the age of 9. Depending on which music historian you believe, the 71-year-old was also rumored to have spent time on death row for killing an inmate during one of his prison stints. Scary stuff, considering today’s country artists sing about high school crushes and dead family pets. Tickets for Coe’s Oct. 6 concert at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. are available now for $35.50 to $25.50 at all Vallitix outlets, or by calling 3287560. Now, if we can only get Taylor Swift to duet on “Mona Lisa Lost Her Smile”? Not the least bit scary is sexy soulsinger Keith Sweat, who

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Interview with rockabilly legend Dave Alvin appearing live at Fishlips Oct. 5. Local jazz funk band Soulajar performs live. Preview of Inkdiction Tattoo Expo at The Dome Oct. 8 and 9

plans on making ladies scream in delight at The Fox next Thursday, Oct. 7. Still sounding as smooth as he did on his 1987 debut album, Sweat’s musical catalog has aged well. His latest CD, “Ridin’ Solo,” continues in the same vein as his classics, “Twisted,” “I Want Her” and “Make It Last Forever.” Tickets range from $41 to $61 also available through Vallitix, or by calling the Fox box office at 324-1369. Younger, but with a much fouler vocabulary is rap rocker Mickey Avalon, who makes his return to B Ryder’s, 7401 White Lane on Oct. 17. Avalon, whose real name is Yeshe Perl, is known for his outrageous stage show and songs dealing with his days of drugs, alcohol and prostitution. While he definitely won’t be winning a Grammy anytime soon, he did live up to his hard partying reputation at the Bakersfield Rockin’ Roots Festival in June. Drunkenly loud and obnoxious, he drew one of the weekend’s bigger crowds with a bevy of scantily clad dancers onstage. Like his peers — pop star Ke$ha, electro punks 3OH!3, and

COURTESY OF DAVID ALLEN COE

Country music legend David Allen Coe will appear at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace on Oct. 6.

Oakland rapper Andre Nickatina — Avalon’s scene is bratty Hollywood party fare. Tickets for his upcoming all-ages show are $29.50. For more info, visit: timgardeapresents.com or call 3977304. Next week, I’ll have a review of this year’s Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights, plus some info on one local band, appearing at Six Flags Magic Mountain during Fright Fest. Be afraid, be very afraid.

Matt’s picks Cidona and more at The Gate, 2010 O St., 7 p.m. Friday. $7. All

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

ages. If you haven’t checked out the band’s cool new video for the song “Lost In Transit,” find it on YouTube. Better yet, catch this young band of talents who have one of the most energetic shows in Bako. Also appearing is singer-songwriter Alex Mitts who along with great original acoustic material has an amazing head of hair. Demand that Mitts’ perform his “Britney Spears medley.” You can tell him I told you to. “The Brain That Wouldn’t Die” screening at Caffeine Supreme, 20th and F streets, at 8 p.m. Friday. Free. 873-4712. What happens when a mad scientist takes the decapitated head of his fiancée and keeps it alive on a platter with hopes to find a new

body? Not a whole lotta love, that’s for sure. Originally titled “The Black Door,” this 1959 B-movie also features a classic stripper catfight, with a jazzy soundtrack. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, and prepare for some real First Friday “headutainment.” Viva Skaktoberfest at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., at 9 p.m. Saturday. $5. 324-2557. So, you haven’t had enough after the Bakersfield Oktoberfest? Head downtown and continue getting “Wunderbar” with help from Central Valley Latin rockers Vital, DJ Mikey, and ska funksters Mento Buru. Be prepared to raise some spirits and make the walls sweat. It’s better than Zumba!

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, October 7, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

The zombies take Universal T

he Halloween funhouse is an annual tradition. Locally, we have The Chamber and Talladega Frights, both open now. But not able to contain myself until October, I packed up the family and headed south to the Sept. 24 opening of Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights. I hadn’t attended the Universal attraction since “Tales From The Crypt” was the rage, and that was sometime ago. My last memory? Sitting in a small theater, seeing local performer George “The Giant” McArthur sword swallow in the “Freak Show.” While I’m dating myself by sharing this information, you’ll all be happy to know that this year’s edition has improved leaps and scares. The minute you walk into the transformed Universal Studios lot, which changes hands from family-friendly to freaky-family at 7 p.m., your experience begins without warning. This year’s event was advertised as featuring horror movie icons Freddie Krueger (“A Nightmare on Elm Street”), Jason Voorhees (“Friday The 13th”), Jigsaw (“Saw”), Rob Zombie’s “House of 1,000 Corpses 3-D” and Chucky (“Child’s Play”). All owned by Universal Entertainment, these are the picks of Halloween lot. One interesting cast inclusion was that of “La Llorona,” a character from Mexican folklore. According to the story, she kills her own children after being scorned by the man who fathered them. With monsters in check, all they had to do was live up to the hype. On we went. Greeting you at every turn with noisy, bladeless chainsaws are resident zombie clowns, uniformed creeps and stilted ghouls who will

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Interview with The Deftones appearing at Stramler Park Oct. 13 Interview with Ozomatli appearing at Fishlips Oct. 14 Local singer-songwriter Alex Mitts performs

drive you crazy, especially if you try to ignore them. Advice: stay off your cell phone, you won’t get a word or text in. Instead of too much detail, I’m going to give you a spitfire overview of what I thought of each funhouse. Spoiler alert: If you’d rather be surprised, stop right here. “Friday The 13th”: The casting of 20 identical hockey-masked look-alikes must have been wild. The Camp Crystal Lake scenes were cool, as were the scary bedroom scenes. Plenty of gore. “A Nightmare on Elm Street”: Re-creating the boiler room set and creepy day care from the movie, you can’t help but laugh along when you hear, “Welcome to prime time, B****!” Freddie never gets old, but with so many sequels, they could’ve pulled more tricks from his fedora. “House of 1,000 Corpses 3D”: At first I thought we were going to watch scenes from the film with the special glasses we were handed. Instead, Rob Zombie’s film is brought to life with characters from both “Corpses,” and its sequel, “The Devil’s Rejects.” The 3-D wasn’t phenomenal, but being taunted by “Baby Firefly” in her nightgown was worth the wait in line. “Chucky’s Terror Tram”: The

PHOTO COURTESY OF UNIVERSAL STUDIOS

Zombies await you at every turn during Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights.

dreaded movie doll takes you on a scary ride to the “Psycho” house. From there you have to do a little walking, as you’re terrorized by more ghouls and an army of knifewielding Norman Bateses. Take your time walking through the “Bates Motel” area, but bring a handkerchief if you have allergies. These old sets are pretty dusty, especially when you have hundreds of people kicking dirt up front. We didn’t get a chance to check out the “Saw” funhouse due to a 70-minute wait. Instead we jumped on the “Jurassic Park” and “The Simpsons” rides, waiting only 10 to 15 minutes each. By the time we exited the “Bill & Ted’s Excellent Halloween Adventure,” it was 2 a.m., and my feet felt like Chucky had chewed on them. If you’re planning on attending Universal Halloween Horror Nights, visit their website at halloweenhorrornights.com and look for discounts. We got the special opening night rate of $34 per person, but it does get pretty pricey at $44 to $79 depending on your

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

deal. I wouldn’t recommend bringing small children (teens will survive) or sensitive types. There are some pretty intense scenes and language. But it is Halloween, and you are paying good money to be shocked. Don’t forget to wear your most comfortable pair of shoes, as some lines can get lengthy. We certainly had a blast and so will you. Knott’s “Scary Farm” near Anaheim and Six Flags “Fright Fest” in Valencia are also worth the trip, and also showing improvement in the face of competition. You can find both online with a quick web search. As I mentioned in last weekend’s Lowdown, Bakersfield band Cidona will be performing during Six Flags’ “Fright Fest” in Valencia on Friday, Oct. 29 at 7 p.m. Their show is free with park admission. More info at: myspace.com/ cidonamusic.

Matt’s picks “The Giant Leeches” screening at Caffeine Supreme, 20th and F streets, 8 p.m. Friday. Free. 873-4712. During the ’50s, Cold War hysteria had moviemakers scrambling to conjure up scary monsters for celluloid. I can only imagine pro-

ducers sitting at a table, thumbing through science books and stopping on a picture of a leech. In the film, rubber-suited actors hold victims hostage before slowly draining them of blood. Sounds like “Wall Street” to me. The Rozzes, Velorio, The Mowglis, and more at The Gate, 2010 O St., 7 p.m. Saturday. $7. All ages. Bakersfield’s The Rozzes are a young lot, but their sound is all vintage garage buzz. Writing catchy guitar-driven tunes sure to make any hipster bob their heads in unison, they’re influences are all over the place. Latin rockers Velorio also make a rare all-ages show appearance, as do folksters’ The Mowgli’s from Venice. Metal Sanaz, Sothis, Band of Orcs and more at The Dome, 2201 V St., 6 p.m. Sunday. $12. 3270190. Fans of mind-bending hard rock in all its gory glory shouldn’t miss this show. Hosted by the “mistress of metal” herself, Metal Sanaz, it also lands on 10-10-10. Just wait until you catch a glimpse of headliner Sothis, whose satanic black metal is no joke. Costumed shock rockers Band of Orcs also remind me of an updated version of Gwar. Yikes.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, October 14, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Creep show at tattoo shop confusion about the show based on the name.” This year Jameson hopes to surpass last year’s inclusion of more than 50 artists, and accommodate an even larger crowd at the Spotlight on Nov. 6. “We’re happy to be back in a theater,” she says, referring to the show’s origins at The Empty Space. “It just keeps on getting bigger every year.” Interested artists have until Nov. 1 to submit their works. For more information contact Nyoka Jameson at 241-0278 or e-mail burninginbako@gmail.com.

Don’t miss classic ‘Carnival of Souls’

acred Gypsy Tattoo’s “Oh, The Horror!” art exhibit arises from the grave this Satur-

day. Bringing together some of the best area creations, the show is part of a series of ongoing exhibits at the downtown shop. Participating artist and resident Sacred Gypsy tattoo artist Gilbert Garcia, who appreciates all things macabre, cites his childhood for inspiring his beautifully “ghastly” works. “We were always watching horror movies on VHS as a kid growing up. When we watched all the good ones from the store, we’d check out the bad ones until we’d seen them all. I can’t remember when I started drawing monsters, I just always have.” A refined mixture of colors and twisted humor, Garcia’s steadyhanded art can also be found on many a skin canvas. Actively tattooing for more than three years, his appreciation for the female form is also evident should you take a peek inside his workspace. “I enjoy drawing women in different styles to keep it interesting. There’s much more lighting and shades involved in my work. I have to use my imagination a lot.” Art collectors may purchase most of the works on display, and most pieces do sell quickly. Plan on arriving early and make sure to strike up a conversation with the artists. Also performing at the event will be DJ Josex and Bakersfield electrorock band The

Pair of Outlaws hit the road PHOTO COURTESY OF GILBERT GARCIA

Gilbert Garcia’s interpretation of Sally from “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” His art will be on display at Sacred Gypsy Tattoo on Saturday.

Hollow. The all-ages exhibit starts at 8 p.m., and admission is $5. Sacred Gypsy Tattoo is located at 826 18th St. For more information, call 323-7179.

Viva ‘La Femme’ On the “outsider” art horizon is all-female art show “La Femme,” coming to the Spotlight Theatre on Nov. 6. Formerly known as “Burn The Witch,” the only thing different about the show is its new title. Show curator Nyoka Jameson, who also returns for the show’s fifth year, thought it was time for a change, after incidents of vandalism occurred at last year’s location. Sharing the space with various groups at the Metro Special Events facility in Westchester, some pieces were mysteriously removed and, in some cases, damaged. “People who didn’t know what ‘Burn The Witch’ was about, kept getting the wrong impression. This time, we wanted to bring a more positive image and avoid

Two members of local rockabilly troubadours The Iron Outlaws are hitting the road for a two-week trek. Opening for Ventura comedy country act Big Jugs, the tour will take them through Northern California, and into Oregon and Washington. “The band can’t go out, so we’re doing an acoustic set like Black Keys and White Stripes would,” said Outlaws’ drummer Cesareo Garasa who will be joined by guitarist/vocalist Danny Garone on the experimental outing. “We’re hoping to develop a circuit so we can take the whole band next time.” The tour kicks off tonight in Auburn and ends at B Ryder’s Bar in Bakersfield on Oct. 24, when they open for Germany’s Mad Sin.

Matt’s picks Ozomatli at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., at 8 p.m. tonight. $24. 324-2557. “If you don’t dance to this, you don’t dance,” should be the title of this show featuring East L.A.’s greatest band since Los Lobos. Many may remember them as the band from the Drew Barrymore movie “Never Been Kissed.” You know … the scene where she eats the “magic brownies” and jumps onstage? If you’ve ever taken part

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

IMAGE COURTESY OF CINEFANTASTIQUEONLINE.COM

Director Herk Harvey, left, pulls double-duty as the white-faced mystery man pursuing Mary, played by Candace Hilligoss, in the frightening 1962 classic “Carnival of Souls.”

in the Ozo experience, you know it’s gonna be hot. If this is your first time, be prepared to dance until you’re ready to be carried home. Bringing all the jams, including the immortal “Cut Chemist Suite,” “Cumbia de Los Muertos” and “After Party,” you’ll be a fan for life. “Carnival of Souls” screening at Caffeine Supreme, 20th and F streets, at 8 p.m. Friday, Free, 8734712. If Federico Fellini, Roger Corman and David Lynch decided to make a film together, it would have looked like 1962’s “Carnival of Souls.” Here’s the plot: Three girlfriends decide to participate in a friendly drag race across the city bridge. Bumped off the structure and plunging into the river, only one passenger survives. Swimming to the surface, the nightmare begins for “Mary.” Haunted by a ghoulish white-faced figure wherever she goes, the storyline’s jump from reality to imagination then leads to a bizarre climax. Filmed in Bakotopia Radio cohost Miranda Whitworth’s hometown of Salt Lake City, the movie’s organ music soundtrack also adds plenty of tension. BECA Group Art Exhibit 2 at Juliana’s Art Studio, 501 18th St.,

Bakotopia Radio 9 to 10 p.m. Sundays on 106.1 FM. KRAB Radio Hosts: Matt Munoz and Miranda Whitworth This Sunday: Interview with The Chamber's Dave Enloe Meet the creators of the Talladega Frights haunted attraction Local indie rock band The Rozzes perform live

at 5:30 p.m. Saturday. $5. 3277507. You don’t have to wait for First Friday to get an art fix like this. Paintings, sculpture, comedy, belly dancing and music? That’s how these wonder women roll. “This is a collection of our members’ best works from the past 12 months,” said BECA’s Faith Flores. Local comedians Dane Forst, Joe Alaniz and Ernesto Gomez keep the testosterone in check for the indiscriminate funny fan. Plus, the lovelies of Bahiyya Almas charm you into the evening, with some musical help from The John Valdez Project.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, October 21, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Head to mall(!) for great show Two blistering gigs made walls sweat BY MATT MUNOZ Bakotopia.com editor mmunoz@bakersfield.com

he “topic” of Hot Topic is always a “hot” one among local bands. While many despise its commercialism of all things “underground,” you have to admit they have some pretty cool band merchandise. I can’t remember how many times I replaced my Dead Kennedys shirt there, but let’s avoid that topic. Let’s get the dish on pop rockers Petree, no pun intended. Petree is a great band, and I’m not just saying that because Bakersfield compadres guitarist Aaron Joseph and drummer Adam Welch are homies. If you haven’t checked out their latest CD “Weakness Makes You Beautiful,” get it now. Better yet, buy it directly from the band when they appear this evening inside Hot Topic in the Valley Plaza for a free all-ages show at 5 p.m. I interviewed the band back in May, just as the CD was about to drop, and found out some pretty interesting things. Singer Stephen Petree is the brother of Chad Petree of electro-rock band Shiny Toy Guns. On the local tip: Aaron Joseph left Bako to bravely pursue music in Los Angeles at a very young age, and hooked up Welch with the drumming gig. If that isn’t inspiring, I don’t know what is. My personal setlist requests at the show tonight:

PHOTO COURTESY OF PETREE

Petree appears at Hot Topic in Valley Plaza tonight at 5 and follows that with a show at Fishlips at 9.

“She Set It,” “Stars Tipped Over,” and their cover of Jesus Jones’ “Right Here, Right Now.” If you’d rather skip the kiddie crowd, you can catch them later that evening at Fishlips at 9 p.m. too. Neat, huh?

These shows didn’t disappoint Two shows I raved about for weeks certainly lived up to the hype on a variety of levels: The Deftones’ return to Bakersfield on Oct. 13, and Ozomatli at Fishlips the following night. It’s been almost 16 years since The Deftones performed in Bakersfield, and judging by the size of the crowd, they shouldn’t have waited so long. When the Stramler Park complex isn’t full, it can look mighty lonely to a multi-platinum band. I wasn’t able to catch opening acts Middle Class Rut and Evaline, but I heard they made some new fans, as opening should always strive for. By the time I had arrived close to 8 p.m., I sensed the crowd had reached is maximum size

around the stage. Looking at the crowd, it was definitely an all-ages affair. You have to figure most longtime Deftones’ fans have reached their late 30s, while the newbies are right about twentysomething. I’m basing this on radio hits and fan bases, since The Deftones have always struck me as more of a cult band. Once the band hit the stage, the mosh pit dust cloud rose and singer Chino Moreno screamed into action, with all the hits: “Birthmark,” “Change (In the House of Flies),” “7 Words,” along with 18 others from their deep catalog. I’ll admit I’m not a huge fan, but they did rock Stramler. Onto a more intimate affair, the Ozomatli concert at Fishlips was nothing short of amazing. Warming up the crowd, The Natural Movement’s DJ Kwizz and MC Nerd of Bakersfield didn’t perform as a hip-hop duo, but did they set the mood. Just like Deftones, it has been sometime since Ozomatli have been in our area.

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

Earlier in the afternoon, I checked out the band’s sound check, and had a chat with various members about the Bakersfield. “Where are the Basque restaurants around here?” asked saxophonist Ulises Bella, while bassist Wil-Dog Abers inquired about yoga spots. I pointed them in a few directions I knew of, and off they went. I sensed some “where are we?” confusion within the band, especially since these guys had performed at the Hollywood Bowl a few weeks earlier. Concerned about the evening’s turnout, I must have asked about ticket sales to the point of harassment. But it’s not every day you have a band of Grammy awardwinners in your backyard. On this night, I was just a fan. Fishlips did their pre-planning well by removing all tables from the center to stage area. Once the band kicked into their set, the whole place became a tornado of bouncing, writhing, jumping madness. When I mentioned last week that the walls would sweat, I wasn’t lying. This crowd was on fire, and the band onstage knew they had to deliver. Some of the show’s highlights: “Cumbia de Los Muertos,” “Ya Viene El Sol,” and “La Misma Cancion,” which also kick started the group’s march offstage for a dancefloor rumba. After the show the band stayed for photos, and assured fans they’d be back. We’ll be sure to hold them to it. Now if only The Deftones do the same, and pass the word along: Don’t overlook Bakersfield.

Belardes is back ... again One of Bakersfield’s original media gadflies, author and blogger Nick Belardes, is back in Bakersfield. This time for good, or so he says… “You realize how much you love a place, when you move away and you don’t know anyone. I spent two months in the OC talking to fish and seagulls.” Belardes has always been one of Bako’s most interesting individuals.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JEREMY GONZALEZ

Chino Moreno of The Deftones performs at Stramler Park on Oct. 13. See more photos at Bakotopia.com.

Not only did he help introduce “power blogging” to our city some years back, but he’s never been short on ideas. “I love to help build community, especially within the literary world. I couldn’t build anything from where I was at. As soon as I take a walk in Bakersfield, the first thing I do is run into someone I know. Everything about this town brings me back: the people, the bike path, the music.” One of Belardes’ latest projects was illustrating the pages of “West of Here,” by author Jonathan Evison, which can be found at Westofherethebook.com. “You can network and build a community on a national level from where you live.” Now that it’s official, writing fans can check out Belardes’ Random Writers Workshop, Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m., at Russo’s Books at The Marketplace. Cost is $8 per workshop. Check out the official Facebook page at facebook.com/randomwritersworkshop.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, October 28, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Musicians lend buddy a hand Fundraiser will help Younger Half alum BY MATT MUNOZ Bakotopia.com editor mmunoz@bakersfield.com

f you remember The Younger Half, consider yourself “old school.” Popular for their flashy costumes and high-energy performances, the Victorville quintet was living life in the fast lane during the ‘80s. The band toured their way from the high desert all the way to Hawaii, and Bakersfield was one of the band’s top fan bases. Performing a virtual jukebox of Top 40 hits of the day, bandmates Jimmy Hinojos, bass; Victor Garcia, drums; Wayne Wright, keyboard; Juan Lopez, vocals; and Juan Rios always looked forward to returning to their “home away from home.” “We actually went to Bakersfield in 1978 and performed at Maison Jaussaud’s — now the site of Golden West Casino, for some years,” said Rios via telephone from his home in Victorville. “That was our first gig in the city, and we ended up making a lot of lifelong friends. We were known as a show band.” And put on a show they did. With groovy costumes and a Latino flair, their futuristic funkiness even scored them a scene in the 1984 breakdance comedy “Breakin’ 2: Electric Boogaloo.” The casting was obvious: the Latin Band. “We had special FX, pyrotechnics. We opened for Midnight Starr, Cameo, Gladys Knight, Luther

Go to Bakotopia.com now and save money! Don’t have enough ducats to see Sublime with Rome and The Dirty Heads on Nov. 5 at Rabobank Convention Center? Head over to our website Bakotopia.com and find the contest link to enter to win a pair of free tickets. That's right, we said free! Stay tuned for my interview with Rome from Sublime next week. Vandross, and were very serious about it,” said Rios of his days as a 20-year-old guitarist. But as musical tastes change, so do personal plans. Band members switch occupations, and performances become infrequent. For Rios, the thought of quitting music and dancing never even crossed his mind. That is, until complications from diabetes entered the picture later in life, causing the amputation of his right leg in June of 2007. Rios’ insurance coverage helped him get the prosthetic leg he needed, but over time it became painful to wear, confining him to a wheelchair. To make matters worse his insurance would not cover any replacement prosthesis, which can run up to $10,000. When news of Rios’ situation spread, the musical friendships built during his Younger Half days began to resurface. In hopes of helping him get back in stride with a new prosthetic leg, a fundraiser has been organized for this Sunday at the Bakersfield Eagles Club, 1718 17th St., beginning at 2 p.m. Performing at the benefit concert are bands Latin Breeze, Truce, The Press, Reggie and The Mighty Statons from Fresno, plus a special appearance by Rios and members of the original Younger Half band. “Juan’s a good friend and we

wanted to help him out,” said longtime friend and co-organizer Michael Cancholla of Bakersfield. “I love his passion for music, and if you saw him with The Younger Half back in the day, you would know what I was talking about. Those were the days.” Rios was touched by the outpouring of support. “I have more reason to live today than I’ve had in the last three years. They showed me how much they valued my friendship, and I really appreciate it. I compare this leg to having an old ‘56 Chevy. I’m looking forward to having a Mercedes.” A $10 donation is requested at the event, and all proceeds will go toward helping Rios purchase a new prosthetic leg. For more information or to make a donation, call 324-9684.

In upcoming concert and contest news… This Tuesday at 6 p.m. Jerry’s Pizza, 1817 Chester Ave., hosts a last-minute electro nightmare of a show with Brokencyde, A SkyLit Drive, Millionaires and others. Once a trio of potty-mouthed party girls who “DGAF,” OC’s Millionaires have since become a duo. Sister’s Melissa and Allison Greene have just released their new EP “Cash Only,” much to the delight of pubescent boys everywhere. Admission for the all-ages show is $16. For more info, visit timgardeapresents.com or call Jerry’s at 633-1000. Tickets are currently on sale for Social Distortion with guests Lucero at the Kern County Fairgrounds on Jan. 24. Social D vocalist Mike Ness loves Bakersfield so much he’s joined the ranks of others who’ve written a song about our beloved city. The song was first performed live in 2006 and should make it on their new album, which will most likely sound like the last one. Tickets for

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE YOUNGER HALF

The Younger Half in 1982, from left: Jimmy Hinojos, Juan Rios, Victor Garcia, Juan Lopez and Wayne Wright.

the upcoming concert cost a very un-punk rock $36, and can be purchased at World Records, Impact in the Valley Plaza, Outer Limits and more. For more info, visit timgardeapresents.com.

Matt’s Picks Just Dave Band at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., at 9 p.m. Saturday, $5, 324-2557. It’s hard keeping up with busy Bakersfield singer and killer harp player Dave “Trigger” Bernal. Bringing his band of funky ghouls for the annual downtown haunt, Bernal recently scored a gig producing VH-1’s “Don’t Forget The Lyrics.” I can’t stand that show, but a gig’s a gig and Dave is one talented mofo onstage. There’s also a big costume contest that evening, so plan accordingly before you make the evening rounds. “Rocky Horror Picture Show” at The Majestic Fox Theatre, 2001 H St., at 10 p.m. Saturday, $10, 324-1369. The classic 1975 film with Tim Curry and Susan Sarandon returns for another year and just in time for fans of the annoyingly

fab TV show “Glee.” Local Rocky Horror troupe The Velvet Darkness are back for some pre-show festivities to get you prepped. The movie starts at midnight, so make sure you’ve had enough caffeine or energy drinks before you head over. Prop bags will be available for purchase to make sure you have all the right stuff to throw at each other. Try it, you’ll like it. Day of The Dead / Dia De Los Muertos Celebration at Golden State Mall, at 6 p.m. Tuesday, free, 345-5842. Every year on All Souls Day, the living gather to pray for and remember loved ones. Celebrated around the world with a variety of customs, it really is a “Dead Man’s Party.” Organized by Cruz “Cruzenator” Ramos with help from the Dolores Huerta Foundation, this year’s event will be the biggest yet. There will be an altar display, folkloric dancing, poetry readings, plus live music from Vanity Avenue, Mento Buru, and Velorio. It’s also free. Who could ask for more? Everybody’s coming, leave your body at the door.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, November 4, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Ding, dong ‘Witch’ is dead ed at the door. Displays will remaining for viewing until Dec.13.

But ‘La Femme’ lives, as does spirit of show

Bakotopia goes ‘Unplugged’

“L

a Femme,” formerly “Burn the Witch,” one of the most anticipated local art shows of the year, opens this Saturday at The Spotlight Theatre, 1622 19th St. Now in its fifth year, the popular all-female show will feature a diverse collection of paintings, sculpture, photography, and more in the spirit of female empowerment. “It’s a celebration of the creativity of women,” said show curator and Bakersfield Emerging Contemporary Artists’ president Nyoka Jameson, who took over duties this year from fellow artist Jen Raven. “There’s so much to see this year. It’s looking like this could be our biggest show yet, even with the new name.” Changing the name from “Burn the Witch,” to “La Femme,” Jameson said it was time to alter things after getting “lost in translation,” one too many times. “Some interpreted the use of the word ‘witch’ all wrong. Some artists thought they had to be a pagan to be in the show. It had this underlying militant theme — that maybe we were all these crazy feminists — which wasn’t the case at all. It’s for everybody, women of all ages, faiths and backgrounds.” Additionally, a week before opening night at last year’s venue, Metro Special Events, some controversial pieces were met with mysterious opposition. After a few acts of vandalism and one too many explanations assuring there would

PHOTO COURTESY OF NYOKA JAMESON

“Corsets” by Maia Cummins Bijeaux, from the “La Femme” art show, which opens Saturday at Spotlight Theatre.

“All the Answers” by Micah Card, from the “La Femme” show.

be no actual burning of witches, they knew it was time to evolve. “After you jump from venue to venue, you have to keep trying and adapt. A group like ours doesn’t

have our own gallery. Last year, I had made up my mind I was not going to let a few people ruin this for 50 artists. I wanted to do something to make it better and clearer this time out.” The name “La Femme” is from a show originally held at Spotlight years before Held in three separate rooms inside the Spotlight, Jameson promises more than enough space to accommodate everyone, including the day’s entertainment. Appearing live will be a cavalcade of belly dancers, musicians, poets and artists eagerly awaiting your acquaintance. “If it’s your first time, you definitely have to see the show. We have that amazing stage for our performers, and three rooms for art. It’s going to keep getting bigger and bigger all the time,” Jameson said. “We sell a lot of our pieces too, so if you’re interested in buying, please do.” “La Femme,” opens Saturday at 2 p.m., and a donation is request-

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

Musicians of all genres are invited to help kick off the new “Bakotopia Unplugged,” night at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., on Wednesday at 8 p.m. Every week, guitarists can bring their acoustic axes, share an amp, mic, and most importantly, the Fishlips stage. In the tradition of “Open Mic Night,” we’ll be attempting to add some more cool features as things progress. There will be a small drum kit available to jump behind and possibly some assorted percussion, but always plan on bringing your own portable gear just in case. Horn players are welcome too. Rock, folk, country, jazz, Latin, reggae, you name it, you can play it here. Don’t worry about not having original material either — bring your favorite covers. Local poets and stand-up comedians are asked to come out. Picture yourself, onstage with a live musical background adding flavor to your verses? It’s too good to pass up. We’re not looking to have any full-blown concerts right now; we’re just giving the local scene another creative outlet instead of sitting in some stinky garage somewhere. What we really envision is a weekly gathering of artists sharing ideas, plus some onstage interviews. If you’re a little shy, Fishlips bartender Andrew Wilkins will have a special libation to loosen you up. A sign-up sheet will be set up near the stage. Along with myself, your co-host for “Bakotopia Unplugged” will be guitarist/vocalist Pablo Alaniz, who has plenty of songs running through his head. Hope to see you all there. If you have any questions, send me an e-mail at mmunoz@bakersfield.com, or call 324-2557.

Matt’s picks Pregnantville at CIA Headquarters, 3401 Chester Ave., Suite

PHOTO COURTESY OF JACKIE BUTLER

Dave Wakeling and The English Beat will perform at Fishlips on Friday night.

M (next door to the Ice House,) at 9 p.m. today. $5. Bakersfield’s youngest comedic collective continues their monthlong residency at this new local venue with a batch of fresh sketches. Not named in reference to anything connected to pregnancy, these guys pop out laughs like Octomom does babies. It’s also adult-themed, very un-PC, and the perfect way to relax after the big election. If the Monty Python guys can become legends for popularizing “absurdist TV comedy,” why not these hilariously improper gentlemen? The English Beat and Velorio at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., at 9 p.m. Friday. $18 to $22. 324-2557. After years of touring under his name, UK ska/reggae legend Dave Wakeling has finally decided to embrace his legacy once and for all. Performing all the hits from his days in The English Beat through the ’80s, plus a nice slice of his subsequent band, General Public, he also has a local connection. Bakersfield drummer Rhythm Epkins has been Wakeling’s beatmaster for years. Opening the show is local Latin locos Velorio, who’ve been playing just about every day since September. There’s also an extra bonus: Show-up with your Sublime with Rome concert ticket stub and get in for half price. I call that “skaffordable.”

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, November 11, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Don’t stop the music My old teacher exemplifies benefits of arts in school

very time I’m asked about the importance of saving music education in public schools, one name always drops into the conversation: Mr. Heckmann. Lawrence Heckmann was my junior high and high school music director at Kern Avenue School and McFarland High School, from 1983 to ’85 — years I consider to be the most important of my musical upbringing. “Heckmann,” as we used to call him around school, was determined from day one. I can still see him now driving up in his Volvo, enthusiastically prepared every morning, sporting his brown corduroy jacket and tie. “It’s time to tune everyone, flutes first. Everyone quiet, please …,” he’d always say, before repeating the mantra a few times more. I sat in the saxophone section and not surprisingly used to contribute my share of goofing off. Did we ever test his patience? The man had to have nerves of steel to put up with us. Not only was our band room a former bus station/warehouse, but when you have a class comprised of high school, junior high and elementary students in the same band, you had to expect trouble. Tracing back memories of everything he accomplished during his brief time at the McFarland conductor’s stand no doubt took commitment. How could one man take a dying music program and turn it around the way he did? Seriously, before the inspirational dramatics of films like “Lean on Me,” or “Stand and Deliver,” there could easily have been a “Heckmann’s Havoc.” “I was jazzed about everything back then,” he said about his beginnings in the field. “It’s like folklore. It needs to be passed

I'm With the Band What: Fundraiser for music education in Bakersfield City schools; music by Mento Buru, silent auction, cocktails and appetizers When: 6 p.m. Saturday Where: Metro Galleries, 1604 19th St. Admission: $40 (all proceeds go to benefit the BCSD Music Program) Information: 634-9598 or 818-5450065

down so young teachers and students will learn.” Born and raised in Bakersfield, Heckmann is an alumnus of both East Bakersfield High and Bakersfield College. He also served in the U.S. Navy and attended the Navy School of Music. “My mom used to tell me, ‘Do what you enjoy doing in life.’ So, always listen to your parents,” he said. After getting his teaching credential in 1971 from Cal State Sonoma, he entered the work force as an elementary teacher in Petaluma. It was then he had his first experience with what would come to haunt the future of arts education starting in the late 1970s. “After Proposition 13 passed in ’78, there weren’t many new music positions available, even in Bakersfield. The cuts started happening slowly.” Landing a job at North Beardsley Elementary in Oildale for two years, he then took a position at Kern Avenue in McFarland, teaching remedial reading classes. Still not giving up on his dream to teach music, he seized the opportunity when a vacancy presented itself. “When I finally got it, the fear began setting in, but I’m the type of person that when I set my mind on something, I go full throttle, 100 percent, and expect perfection.” Confidence-building advice was always within reach from colleagues like longtime friend Ken Fahsbender and local instrument repair legend Joe Armas, among others. “Joe Armas and I used to talk all the time, and he never made me feel like I didn’t

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

Music teacher Lawrence Heckmann, who retired in 2005 after 35 years, worked with students from elementary school to high school all over Kern County.

know anything. Always remember: There’s no such thing as a stupid question.” Heckmann walked the walk daily about his big plans, beginning with a new music library and badly needed uniforms. I can remember marching my first year wearing a windbreaker and painter’s pants with sneakers. “My philosophy has always been goals up here,” he said, gesturing with his hand high in the air. “And expectations right along with it.” And so began the quest for brand-new uniforms, something our school hadn’t seen since the ’60s. Candy sales, car washes — everything went toward the cost, and after some strong support from parents, and the Kern County Superintendent of Schools, we got our uniforms within a year. Contrary to popular belief, Heckmann seemed to have tapped into something

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

many thought was only attainable through school sports. After that, the projects and practices kept rolling in: Concert Band, Pep Band, a new Jazz Band, Kern County Honor Band, not to mention music-rating festivals in Bakersfield, where we scored highly against all the biggest schools in the area. “I wanted to get you kids out of McFarland and introduce you to other cities. We were smaller than most at about 40 to 60 kids, but we never let that hold us back.” To avoid conflicts, Heckmann regularly went to bat with the school district to remind them that his students were receiving a quality music education. There were never broken bones or brain trauma from football injuries to discuss, just GPAs, which were always slightly higher than average. “The fine arts help support academics. It gives students discipline, focus, and an outlet to blow off some steam. You can’t do wholesale education without fine arts.” After campaigning to get a new band room built on the Kern Avenue campus during his second year, his hard work drew notice back in Bakersfield. Becoming assistant director of the Golden Empire Suns Youth Band, he would soon be recruited by the Panama-Buena Vista Union School District. It was a tough choice, but one he needed to make for his family in 1985. “Success can sometimes breed other people tugging at you. I felt I had reached my maximum potential at McFarland,” he said. “It was a career decision.” As sad as we were to see him go, Heckmann remained a mentor in my life for years to come. As a member of the Golden Empire Suns Youth Band for three consecutive summers, I’ve performed in half the country, even making it into Canada. There’s also the matter of the Bakersfield College Marching Band, CSUB Jazz Band, and forming my own group, Mento Buru, but that’s a whole other story. Lawrence Heckmann retired from teaching in 2005 after 35 years. He and his loving and very patient wife, Judy, currently live the quiet life as proud grandparents. Humble and always looking out for his fellow educators, he insisted on the final “coda.” “There have been a lot of teachers who’ve done the same, and they all deserve to be honored.”

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, November 18, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Get your pre-turkey pachanga on Local bars to fill up fast on Wednesday

akersfield's night of a thousand reunions happens Wednesday. I'm talking about the “night before Thanksgiving,” when everyone comes home to see family, friends, and catch up on old times. It's one of my favorite nights of the year, and a big Bakersfield party night. Bars fill up early, and one thing you don't want to do is wait until the last minute. To help you get going early, I've compiled some suggestions on how to maximize your pre-turkey pachanga, no matter what side of town you live on. If you're sticking with tradition, a lot of locals kick it off in Old Town Kern. Pyrenees Restaurant, 717 E. 21st St.; Wool Growers, 620 E. 19th St.; and Narducci's, 622 E. 21st St., are all great places to start right after work around 5 p.m. Take in an early, hearty Basque feast, or just crowd in around the bar among a mix of old high school chums reliving glory days, or chatty girls laughing it up. You can bring the kids, too — a big plus if your sitter is unavailable. Former Bakersfield resident Lauren Lindsay never misses the annual party trek home. Now residing in Los Angeles, she clears her schedule weeks in advance in anticipation for the big night out. “I always think about how great it's going to be to see everyone. It's one of those holidays, where even if you can't make it home for Christmas, Thanksgiving usually works

out. We always meet a group at someone's house first, have dinner somewhere, and end up in downtown to dance and party. Then I call my mom to pick me up at the end of the night,” she laughed. Yes, downtown is the epicenter of pre-turkey day mayhem. Guthrie's Alley Cat, Riley's, Syndicate, The Padre — they'll all be keeping mixologists busy pumping out every libation imaginable. But it's not all about the alcohol, there's plenty of dancing and live music going down. Bakotopia and Fishlips' hosts the annual “Night B4 Thanksgiving Jam,” with my band Mento Buru, who have performed a Thanksgiving eve show every year since '93. Also on the bill is Latin dance maniacs, Velorio, who've been making so many waves in the Los Angeles roc en espanol scene, somebody better sign these guys quick. DJ Mikey also spins throughout the night, keeping the music going non-stop until closing time. The festivities jump off at 7 p.m.; admission is $7, and reservations are recommended. Fishlips is located at, 1517 18th St. Call 324-2557 for more info. A few blocks over at Sandrini's, 1918 Eye St., '80s hair metal tribute The After Party will spew forth every monster ballad and devilhorned anthem you can imagine. Sporting over-the-top outfits, groovy wigs, and shockingly formfitting spandex, they're a beautiful mess of everything you loved about that memorable blink in music history. These kooky cats can play, too, so request some Motley Crue and get ready to bang your head into oblivion. Call Sandrini's for info at 322-8900. If you dig old-school rap, The Nile Bar, 1721 19th St., will present Bodyrock, featuring Mellow Man Ace and Paperboy, beginning at 8 p.m. Your birthday party boy

PHOTO COURTESY OF JEREMY GONZALEZ

Locals pack Bakersfield clubs like Fishlips every Thanksgiving eve.

host for the evening will be DJ Noe G, plus DJ Eric Vidal of the legendary Baka Boyz. Tickets are $15 per person or $25 per couple. For info, call 808-5669. Over in the southwest, B Ryder's, 7401 White Lane, has a special show with Taft-based county rock band Good Question at 9 p.m. These guys literally bring half the town with them to every show, as I witnessed at Luigi's 100th anniversary bash. While you're there, say hi to Shelina, Mike, and the rest of the gang. If you live in the Rosedale area, there are plenty of strip mall watering holes to meet up at: I heard the new Shamrockks Irish Pub, 4715 Coffee Road, is pretty happening, as is The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, with a Songwriters Showcase and guest Rudy Parris at 7 p.m. If you're

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

ridin' the “Hawg” back to Bako, you can always park it at Chuy's Mesquite, 8660 Rosedale Highway, for Bike Night. So start getting your posse together. As always, party smart and have a designated driver or call a cab — there's an app for that. Don't forget “Bakotopia Unplugged” open-mic night happens every Wednesday from 8 to 11 p.m. at Fishlips. We're off this Wednesday for the holiday, but will resume the following week.

Matt's pick 3OH!3 with Hello Goodbye, Down With Webster, and K. Flay at The Dome, 2201 V St., Friday, $25, all ages, 327-0190. The story goes that Electropop duo 3OH!3 met in physics class while attending the University of Colorado in 2004. Since then, it's all been one party of “matter in motion.” Debuting in their hometown of Boulder, they took off instantly at the dawn of the new

PHOTO COURTESY OF JOSEPH CULTICE

3OH!3 performs at The Dome on Friday night.

electro music craze. Creating mindless anthems for hyper youth at the Vans Warped Tour, their latest CD, “Streets of Gold,” is still simmering on the charts. The CD's first single, “My First Kiss,” features singer, Ke$ha, and has an entire Wikipedia page dedicated to it. Leave your brain at home and enjoy.

Thursday, November 25, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street Lifestyles editor Jennifer Self | Phone 395-7434 | e-mail jself@bakersfield.com COURTESY OF MILES LABAT

Music by Bakersfield rapper Danny Wayne can be heard in Tyler Perry’s latest film, “For Colored Girls.”

Holiday Lights

Bakersfield rap artist heard in film BY MATT MUNOZ Bakotopia.com editor mmunoz@bakersfield.com

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

Holiday Lights at CALM is set for its eighth season. This photo is of the 2009 show.

Lights come out at CALM Eighth annual Holiday Lights expected to bring out thousands of visitors to the California Living Museum this season BY MATT MUNOZ Bakotopia.com editor mmunoz@bakersfield.com

party of firework-happy elves and the return of a jolly sea serpent are just two surprises fans and families can expect at the eighth annual CALM Holiday Lights, which opens this weekend. “It’s such a big public event,” said California Living Museum zoo director Lana Fain of the fundraiser, which has become a local institution since its inception in 2002. “We used to think it was a big thing for Bakersfield, and now everyone else does.” Lightasmic’s Josh Barnett knows the feeling. His imagination and crew help bring each display to life. But keeping the light bulb on inside his busy head requires that he never stop looking for new ideas. “We keep moving forward along with technology. Sometimes one thing leads to another,” he said via telephone from Grand Prairie, Texas, where he’s preparing to flip the switch on another big display before hopping on a plane back home to Bakersfield. “Walking through the park, listen-

appy Thanksgiving! Before I sit down to enjoy a weekend of tryptophaninduced laziness, here’s some cool local celebrity news. Tyler Perry movie fans should listen closely while watching his latest feature, “For Colored Girls” currently in theaters. According to the Internet Movie Database, Bakersfield rap artist Danny Wayne has a song, “Alone In My Room,” playing during one of the film’s scenes. Although not included in the movie’s soundtrack, he’s listed alongside some pretty famous company, including soul singers Gladys Knight, Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings and more. A veteran of the local hip-hop and rap scene, Wayne made a name for himself as a member of underground hip-hop heroes Pac Nashun. Now going solo with a new CD, “Thin Line” — available through independent music label Artistfinders.com — Wayne’s onscreen music moment should give him another good career push. The song is filled with slick beats, conscious lyrics, plus the catchy LL Cool J-inspired hook you’ll recognize from the ’87 classic “I Need Love.” For more information, visit myspace.com/dannywayne1000 or stop by your local 7-Eleven and pick up a copy of the disc.

Some UnFriendly fun Making the viral rounds is late-night TV host Jimmy Kimmel’s hilarious “November 17th: National UnFriend Day” video. Originally broadcast last week, ’70s funk legends WAR can be seen singing a parody of their ’74 hit single “Why Can’t We Be Friends?” this time with, you guessed it, “UnFriend,” in the title. One familiar face in the video is percussionist and Lamont native Marcos Reyes, who’s been a full-time member of the band for more than 13 years. “When we got to the studio, they gave us a sheet of lyrics and a script of what would happen,” said Reyes. “We recorded the song first and lip-synched the performance during the taping. We had to do it a few times, because they wanted different camera angles. We each had our own little acting debut with four cameras filming at the same time. It took us about three hours to do it.” No word on whether Reyes will be up for an Emmy nomination for his thespian skills, but we’ll keep you posted. To see the video, do a quick search on YouTube. You can also catch Reyes live Saturday at B Ryder’s, 7401 Please see MUNOZ / C8

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

Please see LIGHTS / C2

GO & DO Eighth annual Holiday Lights at CALM When: 5:30 to 9 p.m. Saturday. Runs through Dec. 23 and Dec. 26 to 30 Where: CALM, 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway Admission: $12, adults; $10, seniors and children 13 to 17; $6, children 3 to 12. $2 discount available Monday-Thursday through Dec. 16. Information: 322-5200 or 872-2256

Share your stories FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

J. Jesus Gonzalez Lopez has a seat as he wraps one of the few remaining trees with lights for the annual Holiday Lights at CALM.

Actresses take on a more mature role Bessie Delany and Sadie Delany. It depicts the sisters at the ages they were when it was written, 101 and 103, respectively. Willis portrays Bessie; o portray characters Rucker appears as Sadie. twice their age, Sheila Willis learned the Delany sisWillis and Renorvia ters were sturdy and self-suffiKennedy Rucker have done a cient women, even after they bit of hands-on research for reached the century mark. their roles in a play to be pre“They did yoga Monday sented this weekend at The through Friday for many years Empty so they were not hunched over Space. “Hav- or rickety in any way,” she said. ing Our “They cooked, cleaned and Say” by gardened and spoke with clarity.” Emily In other words they were not Mann is feeble in any sense of the word. based In fact, said Willis, her own COURTESY OF SHEILA WILLIS on a mother, Bettye Adams, is much Renorvia Kennedy Rucker, left, and Sheila Willis, the stars of book by “Having our Say,” opening this weekend at The Empty Space. Camille Gavin’s “Arts Alive!” like the Delanys, although she’s still drives, teaches Sunday column appears on Thursday. Write to only 81. school and loves to cook,” her via e-mail at gavinarts@aol.com “She still lives on her own, Please see GAVIN / C8

Clever makeup used, plus a role model

Crumpled lists clutched firmly in their sweaty little hands, countless children have dutifully marched up to Santa to rattle off the toys they hope to see under the tree. The experience can be ho-hum, thrilling or, in some cases, so traumatic that the tyke silently swears off red velvet for life. We want your pictures of the experience. Include the name of the person/people pictured, where the photo was shot and the year, if you know it and your name and phone number, which will not be published. Feel free to include the amusing story behind the photo, but don’t go beyond 100 words. Photos will not be returned. E-mail: sdias@bakersfield.com; Mail: The Bakersfield Californian c/o Stefani Dias, PO Bin 440, Bakersfield, CA 93302. Drop-off: 1707 Eye St.

COMING IN EYE STREET Friday: “Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! There’s a Party in My City!” is being hailed as a whirling tornado of family-friendly fun — and Bakersfield is about to take a direct hit. Check out our preview. Saturday: Navigating December, and the dozens of activities that crop up during the happiest time of year, can create a hollidaze for harried families. Allow our Month Ahead calendar to be your guide. Sunday: The annual Chez Noel tour of holiday-ready homes is a great way to pick up decorating tips and peek inside some of Bakersfield’s finest houses. We offer a preview, with pictures, Sunday.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, November 25, 2010

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ing to the ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs.’ It’s such an intense, yearlong process, but those moments make it all worth it. It’s very rewarding for me and my employees.” Starting out as a Christmas present for his loving grandmother, Barnett’s preteen hobby began with a series of traditional displays. After his grandmother’s passing, he moved the operation to his parents’ home in Haggin Oaks. Covering the structure from every corner, he caught the attention of his curious neighbors, along with the rest of the city. “After The Californian ran a story in 2001 about me, I had a lot of people driving by my house. It drove my neighbors crazy. I had 185,000 lights synchronized to music and a show every 10 minutes.” Seeing the potential, he immediately began thinking of expanding the show to become a citywide attraction the following year. Barnett had approached Stier’s RV with a plan to set up a new holiday attraction in a section of the dealer’s lot. The concept was similar but bigger — a lot bigger. Calling it “Lightasmic,” it was an instant success. “We took a corner of the parking lot. In the center we did animatronics — a snowman, some penguins. We had half-a-million lights set up, and bleachers for people to sit at. NBC ‘Dateline’ came and featured us in a segment called ‘America’s Greatest Christmas Decorations.’ It was really a cool thing.” Fain, who had been looking for ways to help market and attract visitors to the zoo, sought out Barnett to see if he would be interested in further expansion. The answer was simple: “We went out and checked out the zoo, and here we are eight years later,” said Barnett. Carefully accounting for every light, Barnett’s Lightasmic operation now employs six full-time employees on the CALM grounds during setup. Crews work nonstop from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. beginning in September and usually put in even more time as opening night approaches. “We start designing around the end of February into March, then hard planning begins. We start ordering all of our lights and pull out all the old structures and layouts for testing and repairs.” With help from major sponsors and community volunteers who help set off the cost of fuel and manpower required to produce the event, organizers try their best to supply an environmentally conscious good time.

FELIX ADAMO / THE CALIFORNIAN

Bryan Wooster strings lights on trees in the parking lot at CALM as crews finish up installation for the annual Holiday Lights at CALM.

“All the displays are run FEAST FOR THE BEASTS exclusively on generators, The California Living 5 pounds frozen mixed although we do have an elecMuseum hopes local vegetables trical infrastructure for the animal lovers will set a zoo outside,” Fain said. “So 2-pound jar of peanut place at the holiday table much is donated with all the butter, jam or honey for their furry friends at sponsorships. The asphalt 2 pounds dried fruit CALM — figuratively outside, fuel … everything (raisins, apricots, banana speaking, that is. helps. It was born from a chips, etc.) Friday is Feast for the community event, and that’s 5 pounds yams or sweet Beasts, the annual food how CALM was born. It’s potatoes (uncooked) drive at the northeast amazing how many volun5-pound bag of wild sanctuary. Admission is teer hours we get to make birdseed free in exchange for this happen.” specified food items or Another way they’ve been 3 boxes zipper freezer bags supplies during operating working on conserving ener(quart or gallon) hours from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. gy from previous years is by 3 12-ounce cans of salmon The food will be stored at replacing outdated painted CALM and used to feed its 1 6-inch stainless steel pet incandescent bulbs with food dish animal residents low-wattage LED lights. throughout the winter. 1 12-inch stainless steel pet Consistent in color and life food dish span, their efficiency helps List of acceptable food item types and quantities to speed setup. $25 gift card from any (any of the following): Last year more than 44,000 pet, grocery, hardware or smiling visitors walked the 3 pounds pecans, walnuts, office supply store will trail of lights at CALM, and admit two adults and two almonds and/or unshelled organizers expect even highpeanuts (all without salt or children. er attendance this year. flavoring) “Sometimes people wait too long, so come early,” Fain said. “Get on the rides first — the train, carousel, then go cocoa-filled thermoses. see the lights. Take your time Since teaming with CALM, out here and take a look at all funds raised by Holiday everything, wear comfy Lights have benefitted the shoes and dress warmly.” zoo’s wildlife awareness Plenty of sweets will be programs and facility UP TO $27 A GRAM on 24Kt PLUS 10% ADDITIONAL with this ad available for purchase before upkeep. And Fain offered 832-5782 or after you hit the trail: ket- assurances that the lights tle corn, hot chocolate, cof- and crowds are no threat to 1304 Wible Road In Business Since 1974 Next to Target on Wible Rd. off Ming Ave. fee and the event’s signature the animals. dish, apple and peach “We take every precaution dumplings. Visitors may also to protect the animals. That’s “ bring their own snacks and our family.”

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, December 2, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

When Weezer had cred: a tribute Band cherry-picks best stuff for show

iss the old Weezer? Then get ready to relive the glory days of ’94 at the big Weezer Cover Show happening Saturday at Sandrini’s. But before you get all excited, be warned. There will be no “Hash Pipe,” “Pork and Beans, “ or “Beverly Hills.” This is strictly for the old school: “Blue” album and “Pinkerton” era Weezer only. “The ‘Blue’ album was the first album I’d heard as a teenager that made me rethink my ideas about playing music,” said singer/guitarist, Pablo Alaniz who will be joined onstage by fellow musicians — Sal Galindo, guitar; Zachary Spier, bass; and Evan Ware, drums. “Before then, we never wanted to sing; it was only about playing guitar.” Alaniz joins legions of other “Weezer-ites” who profess similar love for the music of the quartet’s first two records and an equal disdain for their “comeback” radio hits. ‘“Pinkerton’ is like ‘Empire Strikes Back,’” Alaniz said. “After that, they were never the same band. Rivers Cuomo stopped putting any heart into his lyrics. A lot of people our age are kind of embarrassed to admit Weezer is their favorite band now, because of the music they’re putting out today.” In addition to performing both albums in their entirety, the band will perform some Weezer b-sides and rarities. The buzz on the show has been big since the band made its first announcement,

IMAGE COURTESY OF ERWIN LEDFORD

A parody of Weezer's ’94 “Blue” album promotes Saturday's show at Sandrini's. Pictured from left: Evan Ware, Pablo Alaniz, Zachary Spier, Salvador Galindo.

much universal.” Tickets for Friday’s show are $26.50. Doors open at 7 p.m. For more information visit vallitix.com or call the Fox Theater box office at 324-1369.

so if you’re even thinking about going, make plans to get there early. The show kicks off at 9 p.m., and admission is $5. Sandrini’s is located at 1918 Eye St. For more info call 322-8900.

Matt’s picks

Look who’s laughing now Ever wonder what happens to reality TV show contestants after their 15 minutes of fame? Some figure out how to extend it a few desperate minutes more, while others would rather erase themselves from the archives. Just ask Shafter’s Brooke “Pumkin” Thompson. Remember her? She was the girl who spit at fellow contestant “New York,” on VH-1’s “Flavor of Love.” Since then, she’s made a few reappearances, but does anyone really care about her upcoming sex show being taped for Playboy TV? OK, sorry. Let’s erase that thought for a moment. Not at all in the same bottomdwelling league is comedian Felipe Esparza. Appearing this Friday at the Fox Theater, not only did he win the 2010 edition of NBC’s “Last Comic Standing,” but he’s using his God-given talents to pack comedy clubs and theaters all over the country. “To me, it’s been a blessing because I won of course,” he

PHOTO COURTESY OF EVA ROSE ALANIZ

Felipe Esparza will appear at The Majestic Fox Theater on Friday.

laughed via telephone from his home in Los Angeles while discussing his reality TV stint. “It’s cool to keep working and traveling doing comedy.” Thoroughly laid-back on the phone, his stand-up act is as casual as it is hilarious. Beating out nine other comedians during the competition, Esparza’s signature bushy mane and everyman themes have helped push him into the comedy big leagues. Working as a struggling comic in Los Angeles for years, Esparza became a regular fixture hosting regular comedy nights at various clubs. He recalls one evening in particular, when he was introduced for the first time to friend and future comedy star Gabriel Iglesias. “I was running a comedy show in Montebello at a place called the Wild Coyote Steakhouse a long

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

time ago. Gabriel hadn’t been doing comedy for very long, and he had one of his friends come and ask me if he could do some stand-up. He came up to me all shy, so I said, ‘You’re next fool!’ And just like that, he killed it onstage.” If you’ve ever seen Iglesias in concert, you may already be familiar with stories about his friend “Felipe,” and their crazy adventures that always start out with Esparza’s famous catch phrase, “What’s up, fool?” “That’s me, man,” Esparza revealed. Hoping to avoid being typecast as just a Latino comic, Esparza says his TV win is a good sign that he’s on the right track. “In the beginning, a lot of Latino comedians like me were so concerned about crossing over. Paul Rodriguez told me, ‘Listen man, when you’re this funny, you don’t need to cross over; people will cross over to you.’ So, I took that advice. My jokes are pretty

The Future Has-Beens present “Northbound & Down” at The Spotlight Theatre, 1622 19th St., at 11:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday, $5, 634-0692. There are quite a few local comedy troupes sprouting around town, but not all of them will make you laugh. That’s not the case with The Future Has-Beens. Troupe member Morgan Roy, who recently dropped the “S.” from his middle name for reasons unknown, writes some pretty crafty comedy tunes. Combine that with years of theater experience and you have an evening of twisted holiday madness. I’m sure you’ve heard the old saying, “The more you drink, the better we sound?” Guess what? They’re promoting $1 beer specials all evening. “Bon Johnson” AC/DC tribute at B Ryder’s, 7401 White Lane, 9 p.m., Saturday, $8 to $10, 397-7304. If a Weezer tribute isn’t your bag, then you might think about heading over to B Ryder’s to check out a tribute to Australia’s kings of the rock, AC/DC. The band hails from Los Angeles. I happened to check out some live videos available at their official website bonjohnson.com. Able to jump from both eras of AC/DC’s ’70s and ’80s songbooks, they’re definitely worth a headbang or two.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, December 9, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Play us a song, piano man Head to the Palace for a look at a legend

usic legend and studio session wizard Leon Russell returns to Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace this Tuesday. Busy as ever with a critically acclaimed new release titled “The Union” — a CD he recorded with fellow pianist, Elton John — this is a rare opportunity for Bakersfield to witness one of the best American songwriters of his generation. You might recognize some of his classic works: “Superstar,” made popular by the Carpenters, “This Masquerade,” the song that helped make guitarist George Benson famous, and Donny Hathaway’s cover of Russell’s “A Song For You,” a song that always makes me tear up. Still sporting his rocking frostywhite locks and cowboy hat, he’s recorded with everyone from B.B. King to the Rolling Stones, writing horn arrangements and performing on “Let It Bleed.” Now that you’ve been schooled, you have only yourself to blame if you miss it. The show starts at 7 p.m., tickets are $18 to $24 and can be purchased through vallitix.com or by calling 328-7560. Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace is located at 2800 Buck Owens Blvd.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEON RUSSELL

Music legend Leon Russell will be appearing at Buck Owens' Crystal Palace on Tuesday.

The Shutter Clique Since the introduction of the digital camera, everyone seems to be a “professional photographer” these days. In most cases, the

PHOTO COURTESY OF MATT MUNOZ

Bakersfield's Vanessa Andrea has become a standout at Bakotopia Unplugged Open Mic night on Wednesdays.

title doesn’t match the product. There’s nothing worse than seeing a blurry, washed-out photo taken on an expensive camera trying to

be passed off as “art.” Let’s not even get into Photoshop disasters, or being charged for something you can do better on a disposable Fun Saver. Surfing the Web, I was reminded of a local club of photographers who may offer some much needed mentoring. The Shutter Clique is a group of camera-wielding image-grabbers who meet regularly to network and, of course, take loads of photos. Judging by galleries available at its Facebook page, they seem to be having a lot of fun, and more importantly, offer guidance and valuable critiques when needed. You can visit their website at theshutterclique.com for more info on upcoming meeting dates.

Bakotopia Unplugged Wednesdays Every week, I’ve introduced some interesting local talent at Bakotopia Unplugged open-mic night at Fishlips.

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

From solo acoustic guitar singer/songwriters, a cappella vocalists, and some pretty cool spoken word poets, you never know who will be next on the signup sheet. One standout has been 21-yearold Vanessa Andrea, who’s made a few appearances since our November debut. Performing her own compositions, she’s also raised a few eyebrows with surprise covers by Paramore (“The Only Exception”) and Michael Jackson (“Billie Jean”). Chatting with her during breaks, there’s apparently quite a story behind her journey through the Central Valley, and she’s anxious to share it in a future column. Another highlight has been keyboardist Therese Muller and guitarist Kenny Reeves, who always show up with a strong set of material and get a rousing response from the audience. We’re off to a great start, so if you have some music, poetry or other hidden talents, please join us every Wednesday at Fishlips.

Show me the party Calling all clubs, bands, and promoters. If you’re throwing a big New Year’s Eve bash and would like to be included in my celebration roundup, start getting your details together now. Please email your flier or detailed event info to me at mmunoz@bakersfield.com by Dec. 17. Also include a contact phone number, in case I need some verification.

Matt’s picks Kottonmouth Kings, Ill Spawn, Dirt Heads at The Dome, 2201 V St., 7 p.m. today. $19. 327-0190. Say what you want about this group of hip-hoppin’ stoners, but 17 albums later, these guys have better business sense than most of their industry peers. Introduced to the nation via the soundtrack to “Scream 2” with their song “Suburban Life,” they took that exposure and started their own record company and clothing line. Responsible for inspiring the

“bro” lifestyle Bakersfield has become known for — black Tshirt, baseball cap with flipped-up rim and tattoos galore — Kings’ shows are one big cloud of Mary Jane madness. Tomorrow’s Bad Seeds, Josh Fischel, Kat at Fishlips, 1517 18th St., 8 p.m. today. $10. 3242557. These Hermosa Cali reggae dudes are one in a long line of Sublime-ish type bands that populate the coastline. But what sets them apart from the rest is their soulful, funky-flavored live show. If you don’t believe me, check out the mini-video documentary at their official website tomorrowsbadseeds.com. Their new CD, “Sacred for Sale,” is out now and should keep you warm until summer returns. Opening the show is Long Beach compadre Josh Fischel, one talented singer/songwriter and someone I rave about regularly. Highly recommended. A Silent Film, Il Sogno, The Volume at B Ryder’s, 7401 White Lane, 9 p.m. Saturday. $5. 3977304. U.K. popsters A Silent Film are currently making their mark in various U.S. cities with some nice, polished radio pop. Sounding like a younger version of Coldplay, their piano-driven tunes are filled with sweeping choruses courtesy of lead vocalist Robert Stevenson. With no local radio airplay, they might be ignored, but their latest CD, “The City That Sleeps,” should collect some new Bako fans. Stand-out tracks include “You Will Leave a Mark” and “Julie June.”

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, December 16, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Young guns come out blazin’ Singer/songwriter, band break out

ust in time for holiday break, two fun shows featuring some talented Bako youth are making their way to a church and club near you. This Friday night, local singer/songwriter Landen Belardes will be throwing a special all-ages show in celebration of his new CD, “Listen,” inside The Great Room at Olive Drive Church. Written and recorded by Belardes himself, the 19-year-old has matured musically since his high school days as a member of pop-punk misfits Dirty Spanglish. No longer writing songs about Jones Soda or Harry Potter movie crushes, Belardes says his new material is a reflection of life moving forward. “After Dirty Spanglish split, I didn’t wanna quit playing music. Over the last year and half I kept writing, but didn’t feel I had the right material to represent who I am. Several of the songs on the CD have been written over the past couple of years. Some are fairly recent and written while I was recording.” Recording directly to his laptop computer wherever the mood hit him, Belardes detailed his quest for home acoustic perfection. “I recorded most of it at home and at my church. I have Pro Tools on my computer so I just dragged it around to wherever I want — going into closets to the kitchen for the right sound. I used everything that I had available to capture the sounds the way I want. I even named my studio Yellow

PHOTO COURTESY OF DEBBIE KATZ

Hello Friday — from left: Alex Katz, Grant Whitson, Shelby Sward and Harrison Katz — will perform Wednesday at B Ryder’s.

“I’ve Flown Back Home” to the closing title track, Belardes’ debut is an impressive introduction to a promising young career. Friday’s show starts at 7 p.m. Admission is free, and CDs will be available for purchase for $5. Olive Drive Church is located at 5500 Olive Drive. For more information call 393-8210, or visit Facebook.com/landenbelardesmusic.

Hello Friday’s Holiday Hoopla

PHOTO COURTESY OF NICK BELARDES

Bakersfield singer/songwriter Landen Belardes performs at The Great Room at Olive Drive Church on Friday.

Table Studios after my kitchen table.” Shooting off a lengthy list of musical influences, he narrowed it down to two. “U2 and Wilco were the biggest inspirations for me. Those were artists I’ve grown up listening to and watching for years.” Those primary influences are apparent throughout “Listen.” From the opening immediacy of

On Wednesday night, Bakersfield alterna-pop quartet Hello Friday will be hosting their own all-ages shindig at B Ryder’s with Santa Barbara guests False Puppet. Not ready to release a CD of their own just yet, band members Alex Katz (guitar), Grant Whitson (drums), Shelby Sward (vocals) and bassist Harrison “Harry” Katz, plan on giving vacationing students a reason to rock around the Christmas tree. “We love music and just wanna have fun,” proclaimed Sward. “And if you come to the show, we’ll make sure you have a good time, too.” I’m well aware of the attention

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

span of most teens, so to make sure eyes don’t wander or roll, here’s the condensed history of Hello Friday for your Thursday… Formed in April of this year, these four energetic Stockdale High students were originally a three-piece named Flakjacket, performing a few shows with other local bands. Bored and on the lookout for a new musical direction, Whitson, along with the Katz brothers, scouted for a new vocalist. Impressed with Sward’s vocal abilities, they offered her the gig. “I’ve never sang in any bands before, but I was in a musical called ‘All Shook Up,’” said Sward. “I remember being with my mom at the supermarket when they called me. I went to the audition, and they asked me to sing a Paramore song, which was really intimidating.” Putting together enough material for a short set, the band made their debut at the annual Rockin’ Roots festival at Stramler Park in June. Set up on a small platform in front of a few thousand eyes and ears, the band took full advantage of an unexpected opportunity. “We got the stage next to Good Charlotte, so everyone who was waiting to see them had to see us first,” laughed Whitson. “We rocked it, of course.”

The upbeat vibe of the band’s original music is complemented by Sward’s voice, which bears a striking resemblance to a young Nancy Griffith, especially on “You Never Know,” a song that has become the band’s signature tune. “That was the first song I ever wrote. It’s about a guy I had a crush on in the eighth grade. I was being a little nostalgic; everyone has their summer romance. I was alone,” said Sward. Ah, the joy of youth … Wednesday’s show starts at 7 p.m., admission is free. B Ryder’s is located at, 7401 White Lane. For more information call 397-7304 or visit Myspace.com/hellofridayrocks

Matt’s pick Love Society Rejects at The Prime Cut, 9500 Brimhall Road, 9:30 p.m. Saturday. $5. 831-1413. Brothers Tim and Rick Fluckey haven’t performed together onstage since their last band, Unborn, went kaput in 1998. After the group’s demise, Tim went on to form platinum-selling hard rock band Adema while Rick kept on rockin’ as an independent artist. Joining forces outside of the moshpit once again, they’ll be doing a special show as their alteregos, Love Society Rejects, performing reworked covers by Radiohead, Weezer, Jane’s Addiction and more. They’ll also be doing some rockin’ blues with help from fellow musicians Rob Lopez on guitar, Nick Kisselburg on drums and Jay Meiselman on blues harp.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, December 23, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

Put laughs on your Christmas list Show at Fishlips spoofs holiday music

f you’re looking for some holiday ha-has, jump in your sleigh and slide on over to Fishlips at 8 tonight for the “NonDenominational Shmaltz Fest.” Described as an “adult holiday and comedy show wrapped into one,” director, head writer and cast member Morgan S. Roy said he was inspired by ’70s TV. “I used to love those cheesy variety Christmas specials, with The Brady Bunch hosting and all the lame song and dance routines,” said Roy. “This is a full-blown variety show, with multiple sketches, some song and dance — something different for the scene at Fishlips, but lots of music.” But there’s a big difference between “A Very Brady Christmas” and this show, added Roy. “We have lots of messed up Christmas songs.” Known for composing parodies of classics, Roy has also written some originals for the show, including “Santa Doesn’t Come To The Barrio,” “Christmas In Rehab,” “Carol of The Bongs,” “Santa and Mrs. Claus Work Things Out,” “The Most Ignorant Hannukah Sketch Ever” and more. “We’ll be making fun of all the holidays, not just Christmas. If you’re culturally sensitive, you might not wanna come to our show. It’s definitely subversive comedy. We get kinda out there.” Your hosts for the show will be Jared “Smokin’

PHOTO COURTESY OF KYLE BROWN

Thomas G. Robinson was vocalist of the year in 2009 at the “Road to the Fair” Karaoke Contest.

PHOTO BY MATT MUNOZ

Comedian Morgan S. Roy will be appearing at Fishlips tonight.

Phat J” and Matty D of Bakersfield band Tall Dark and 90, plus fellow funnymen Matt Frederickson and Maurice Pittman, who have dubbed themselves “The R.A.T. Pack.” “This show definitely won’t leave a lump of coal in your stocking. We’re a cheap date,” said Roy. Fishlips is located at 1517 18th Street, admission is $5. Call 3242557 for information.

Thomas G. Robinson off to BCT Citing the need to stretch his wings and see what he can offer the oldest continuous running theater in California, Thomas G. Robinson has decided to leave

The Empty Space for a new position as director of marketing at Bakersfield Community Theater. Working as both gallery and marketing director at the theater on Oak Street for two years, Robinson’s decision to step down comes on the heels of a successful production this month of the Random Writers One Acts at BCT. After the show’s run, Robinson says his experience working with BCT was a friendly change. “The feeling was very welcoming, and I felt they were genuinely glad to have me there.” With a little over a year left on his term on the board-elected executive positions at The Empty

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

Space, Robinson felt it would be better for all involved if he resign from the board and allow someone else to replace him. With no hard feelings, Robinson handpicked award-winning local artist Nano Rubio as his gallery director successor. “I don’t feel like I’ve left them in any kind of lurch, as their board is very strong and very active,” Robinson said. “I know that I just wasn’t feeling like I was contributing all I could due to some personality conflicts and feeling somewhat stifled.” Robinson produced, directed, and was one of the stars of The Empty Space’s “Jukebox Legends” last summer, one of the theater’s summer hits. “That one was too much at once,” he said. “I think producing, directing and starring in, as well as helping to design the sets, the marketing, and picking songs and artists was just too much at once — I got kind of burned out, and I’m sure I

rubbed some people the wrong way — well, I know I did!” After that show, Robinson avoided performing theatrically until Bakersfield writer/director James Kopp asked him to be in October’s “Geeks Vs. Zombies.” “I was thankful to James for casting me in that show, as it got me out of my funk and let me fall back in love with live theater,” Robinson said. “Now I’m looking forward to starting new, bringing more good theater to Bakersfield, and to be in a place that has so much history.” “Jukebox Legends” is nominated for five Empty Space Awards, which will take place on Jan. 9 at Stockdale Country Club. Robinson is nominated as Best Featured Male Actor for his role of “God” in “Geeks Vs. Zombies.”

What were the biggest stories of 2010? Bakersfield’s music and art scene had a lot of movement this year. Bands were in the studio and onstage, while art galleries closed and reopened. While I don’t have enough eyes and ears to cover the entire city, I know you readers out there collectively can help. For next week’s column, I’d like to do a nice recap of the year’s highlights. Who made the biggest splash this year? Send me an e-mail at mmunoz@bakersfield.com with some noteworthy bits by Monday! Feliz Navidad!

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, December 30, 2010

Eye Street The Lowdown with Matt Munoz

2010 was year for entertainment Local, out-of-town bands rocked crowds

he year was an exciting one in the Bakersfield scene. Let’s look back at a year’s worth of highlights and Lowdowns.

January-March After saying goodbye to Bakotopia Magazine, we said hello to Bakotopia Radio Sunday nights on KRAB Radio with me and cohost Miranda Whitworth. Bakersfield reggae rockers Dub Seeds released their new CD “Feelin’ It, Bakotopia’s huge Fat Tuesday and St. Patty’s Day shows at Fishlips were two for the books, the first weekly edition of the Lowdown kicked off by naming Metro Galleries’ owner Don Martin the unofficial mayor of downtown, Bakersfield rap group The Natural Movement gave away their new CD on the web, Korn was caught snooping around town looking for places to film their new video, and Voodoo Glow Skulls skanked it up at The Dome with shock rockers The Mentors, who happily shocked people into leaving once they hit the stage.

April Memories of Chaos Coffeehouse and the DIY business spirit recalled downtown’s days of innocence, the First Friday Art Walk kept us strolling, the 15th annual Scottish Games provided some rowdy family fun at the Kern County Fairgrounds, E.P.I.C., comedians Cheech & Chong smoked out at the Fox, the 18th

Bakotopia Unplugged Open Mic Night With hosts Matt Munoz and Pablo Alaniz When: 8 to 11 p.m. Wednesdays. Signups start at 7:30 p.m. Where: Fishlips, 1517 18th St. Information: 324-2557 or visit the Facebook page for updates. annual Festival of Beers grooved along peacefully at Stramler Park, ’80s cow punkers The Beat Farmers helped Fishlips’ celebrate their “Decade of Decadence,” Latin jazzers Kelulu made their performance debut at Sandrini’s, and electro trio That That released their phenomenal debut EP with the irresistible “Take It Off.”

May The Bakersfield Jazz Festival was back for more Mother’s Day weekend jams at CSUB, child TV actor and former Bako resident Brandon Cruz punked it up with his band Dr. Know at The Dome, Korn unsuccessfully tried to keep the filming of their music video “Oildale” a secret in the ’08, Paramore sold out Rabobank Arena, Dream/Universal pop rockers Petree threw their CD release party at The Prime Cut, reggae-rockers The Dirty Heads filled B Ryder’s beyond capacity, the KRAB For All attracted more than 5,000 kids to the Bright House Amphitheatre, Christian ska band the OC Supertones reunited at Jesus Shack, and Bakotopia.com relaunched with a new look.

June Promoter Tim Gardea explained the concert monster that is the Rockin’ Roots at Stramler Park, Bay Area gangster rap legends E-40 and Too Short filled the Nile, The Core Live

CASEY CHRISTIE / THE CALIFORNIAN

David Baron Stevens, left, plays on the saxophone with John Taylor on trumpet during the annual Bakersfield Jazz Festival at CSUB.

made its web video/radio debut, Hectic Films filmed a music video for Swedish Islamic soulsinger Maher Zain on Eye Street. The Original Wailers performed in Bakersfield, the Country Throwdown tour at Rabobank struggled to draw a crowd after a last-minute reschedule and artist cancellations, techno genderbender Jeffree Star sold out Jerry’s Pizza, while Korn scaled down to perform at Rabobank Convention Center.

July Bakersfield Celtic rockers 1916 had a CD release party complete with drinking games and a boozefilled piñata at Fishlips, punk reggae act The Expendables talked about being confused with a bad action film of the same name, Dollface Photography of Bakersfield released its 2011 pinup calendar, Circa Survive made the walls sweat downstairs at Jerry’s Pizza, and Adema made their long-awaited return to Bakersfield minus

Matt Munoz is editor of Bakotopia.com, a sister website of The Californian that devotes itself to promoting Bakersfield’s art scene. Matt’s column appears every Thursday in Eye Street.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CARLY WATTS

The Core Live is a Bakersfield multimedia entertainment brand that made its debut in June.

bassist Dave Deroo who went MIA before their show at The Dome.

August The Lowrider Nationals bounced and booty-shaked at the Kern County Fairgrounds in the blazing heat, SRH’s Strange

Noize tour landed at B Ryder’s with heavy hitters from the world of “bro” music and fashion, Bakersfield band The Hollow showed signs of electro-punk greatness then broke up, The Wichitas talked playing music on their own Please see PAGE 23

Thursday, December 30, 2010 The Bakersfield Californian

Eye Street CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

terms, and Hectic Films began screening free Bmovies at Caffeine Supreme.

September Long Beach music veteran and adopted Bakersfield son Josh Fischel vibed it up at Fishlips, Live lead vocalist Ed Kowalczyk made a surprise visit at the Bakotopia Radio studios to perform a medley of acoustic hits, Village Fest poured up the brew, wine and music at the Kern County Museum, the Eli Young Band brought some pretty boy country sounds to Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, singer/songwriter Ryan Bingham talked about living on White Lane before becoming an Oscar winner alongside Jeff Bridges in the film, “Crazy Heart,” Soulajar magically raised $5,000 in one night toward the production of their long-awaited new CD, and my dad, Arturo, got his own memorial park in the city of McFarland.

October Bakersfield Oktoberfest avoided the sophomore slump at Stramler Park, country music outlaw David Allen Coe helped set the musical mood for the Halloween season, Sacred Gypsy’s “Oh, The Horror!” art exhibit scared up partygoers, Los Angeles Latin hip-hoppers Ozomatli returned to Bakersfield after a 14-year absence with an all-night dance-a-thon at Fishlips, Bakersfield’s Iron Outlaws hit the road supporting Ventura comedy country act Big Jugs, local Day of The Dead art celebrations became increas-

ingly popular among nonLatino audiences, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at The Fox was the coolest way to celebrate Halloween, Central Valley musicians rallied together to help guitarist Juan Rios get a new leg, local author Nick Belardes moved back to Bakersfield “for good” this time, and Bakotopia Radio signed off on KRAB Radio.

November Bakotopia Unplugged Open Mic Night debuted on Wednesday nights at Fishlips, popular all-female art show “Burn The Witch” art show returned as “La Femme” at The Spotlight, ’80s music icons The English Beat booked themselves at Fishlips the same night as Sublime with Rome at Rabobank, Bako comedy collective Pregnantville began a monthlong residency at local CIA Headquarters venue, the story of longtime Bakersfield music educator Lawrence Heckmann was a reminder of the importance of music education in our schools, “I’m With The Band,” a scholastic music fundraiser collected more than $10,000 in donations at Metro Galleries, local clubs

and partygoers cashed in on the night before Thanksgiving, Colorado music duo 3OH!3 filled The Dome, and area talents Danny Wayne, Marcos Reyes and Paul Cartwright made music for movies and TV.

December Weezer tribute at Sandrini’s caused rejoicing among fans of the band’s “Blue” and “Pinkerton” years, NBC “Last Comic Standing” winner Felipe Esparza performed at the Fox Theater, Leon Russell performed an incredible two-hour set of classics and covers at a sold-out Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, the Shutter Clique gathered to help Bako photographers with their point ’n’ shoot, Bakersfield musicians Vanessa Andrea, Hello Friday, and Landen Belardes offered hope for the future of the local music scene, Kottonmouth Kings may have worn out their welcome with less than stellar attendance for their show at The Dome, comedian Morgan S. Roy and his band of funnymen responded to holiday PC sentiment with the “NonDenominational Shmaltz Fest,” at Fishlips and Los Angeles punk legends X marked a band milestone

performing at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace. What a wild trip it’s been, I’m ready for an even bigger 2011. Cheers!

Matt’s pick Bakotopia’s “New Year’s Eve Pachanga” with Mento Buru, Velorio and DJ Noe G at Fishlips,

1517 18th St., 8 p.m. Friday. $15. 324-2557. We may be far from Times Square, but that doesn’t mean we can’t party like the Big Apple. Mento Buru’s funky Latin reggae ska, combined with Velorio’s cumbia-rock rhythms, and DJ Noe G’s hip-hoppin’ old school dance jams are just

too good to resist. Mix that in with Fishlips’ laid back vibe and comfort-filled entrees like the spicy Mento Burrito, and you should be groovin’ into 2011. Admission includes party favors, champagne toast and all-you-can-eat midnight buffet. Kissing partner at midnight not included.

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